Your email account was hacked

It often starts with a fake party invite, like Evite or Paperless Post, or a login page that asks for your email password. Real invites never do. Many people don’t remember entering anything, and the steps are the same either way.

What to expect

There’s no money to chase. This is about getting your email back under your control before scammers use it to reset your other accounts or message your contacts. People who change the password and turn on two-step verification right away usually stop it.

Right now

Do these in order

Make it new and unique. If asked, choose to sign out of all other devices. That kicks the scammers out.
Can’t sign in?
If the scammers changed your password, use your email provider’s official account recovery page to prove it’s you and get back in. Go to it through the provider’s own website or app, never a link or phone number from a message.
Gmail support.google.com Outlook support.microsoft.com Yahoo help.yahoo.com Apple support.apple.com
Links open official sites in a new tab.

Within 24 hours

While it’s fresh

In the weeks ahead

Keep an eye on it

Was there personal information in your inbox?They have your identity or personal details

Staying safe from here

Add layers of protection
Download the free Scamwise app to automatically block scam messages, flag scam calls, and check anything suspicious instantly.
Freeze your credit
It’s free at all three bureaus and stops anyone opening accounts in your name.
How to freeze your creditusa.gov
Turn on two-step verification
Start with your email and bank. It’s in each account’s security settings. With it on, a stolen password alone won’t get anyone in.
Hang up and call back
If a call, text, or email pushes you to act fast on money, contact the company using the number on its website or your card.
Expect a second attempt
People who’ve been scammed get targeted again, often by someone offering to help.

Scammers count on silence. Sending this guide to friends and family helps them act fast if it ever happens to them.

This page is general information, not legal or financial advice. Policies change and vary by institution, so confirm details with your bank or the official agency. Scamwise never charges victims and cannot recover funds.

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