A hacked Google account is not only annoying but also poses a massive security risk. You may use multiple Google services and if a hacker has got into one, they can get into others. The services that may be impacted are Gmail, YouTube, Google Photos, Google Drive, Blogger, and Google Ads.
We’re going to tell you what the clues are that your account has been hacked, show you how to recover a hacked Google account, and give you some tips on how to stay safe online and on Google in the future.
How do you know your account has been hacked?
Here are some telltale signs that your Google account has been hacked:
- If unfamiliar changes have taken place on your account. For example, if your recovery email or phone number has been changed or your Google account name without you knowing.
- If you don’t recognize purchases made on Google Play or Google Ads or payments from Google AdSense aren’t reaching you.
- If you received a notification from Google that suspicious activity has occurred on your account that you didn’t authorize.
- If you can’t log in to your Google account with your password.
How to recover a hacked Google account
If you think your account has been hacked the first thing you should do is change your password.
- Click on your profile icon, then “Manage your Google Account”
- In the top left of your screen, click on “Security”
- Scroll down to the section called “Signing in to Google” then click on “Password” and follow the instructions on the screen
If you can’t change your password, either because you have forgotten your old password or the hacker has changed it, you will need to recover your account. You can do this by going to the Google account recovery page and supplying the information they request.
Tips for staying safe on Google and online
Now that you have recovered your hacked Google account, you should make your account as secure as possible. Here are our top tips for making your Google account safer and improving your online security.
Set up 2-step authentication on Google
You can turn on 2-step authentication on your Google account. This means that even if your password is hacked your account will be secure. That’s because you’ll sign in to your account with your password and a physical item (e.g. your phone). You can turn this on by following the same steps as for resetting your password above and on the final screenshot you will see “2-Step Verification” directly under “Password”.
Install a secure browser
CCleaner Browser is a new browser packed full of privacy and security features. It helps keep your identity anonymous, blocks ads, and allows you to use the internet knowing that you’re protected from identity theft, phishing scams, and malware.
It runs on Chromium so looks and feels like Chrome too. CCleaner Browser is free to use so why not download it today and experience the peace of mind and freedom of browsing safely online?
