If you answer yes, we recommend that you act immediately, by following our guidelines below, and then proceed to our Report, Recover and Reinforce sections for further assistance. Remember, a hacked cell phone or smartphone can affect your finances, career, privacy, safety and reputation.
Some Immediate Action Steps to Take*
- Install security software on your Android phone.
- Disable WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS when you’re not using them.
- Avoid easy unlocking methods.
- Delete personal data from your phone.
- Don’t open suspicious emails or click on links in text messages.
Report
Reporting cybercrime incidents to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)is very important! The more national reporting data that is collected, the better the chance law enforcement has to catch the criminals and decrease online crime. Although the FBI does not resolve individual complaints directly, they will make your report available to local, state and other law enforcement partners. The FAQs about reporting can be found here. Please read the FBI/IC3 privacy policy here. (If you believe that you’ve received a phishing email, please forward the email directly to reportphishing@apwg.org.)
Recover
These resources have been gathered, selected and vetted to help simplify the process of recovering after a cybercrime incident has taken place. You may need to contact organizations outside Fraudsupport.org. Results will vary depending on your circumstances.
Inform your carrier:
- AT&T: Report Your Incident to AT&T
- Verizon: Information & tips on how to protect your accounts.
- T-Mobile: Contact Us
- Sprint: Contact Us
- FTC: Your Mobile Phone Could be Hacked by an Identity Thief
Reinforce
Once you have notified the appropriate organizations and you are on the road to recovery, it is time to reinforce your cybersecurity using these resources and tools.
- Improve Your Security: Find cybersecurity tools to enhance your online safety.
- FraudSupport.org: Easy E-Cleanup Checklist
- FTC: Identity Theft by Mobile Phone
- AT&T: Cell Phone Security Features
- Verizon: Security and Privacy
- 10 Ways to protect your Android phone
- T-Mobile: Lookout Mobile Security app
- Sprint: Safety and Security
- Cricket Wireless: Fraud Overview
- Nomorobo: Stop Unwanted Robo and Telemarketing Calls
Implement Preventive Measures*
- Download our Six Steps to Better Security PDF.
- Keep passwords private.
- Set a passcode. Choose a password that’s hard to guess.
- Avoid auto-login.
- Keep your operating system up-to-date.
- Vet apps before installing them.
- Memorize how to control your phone remotely.
- Use a VPN when on unsecured Wi-Fi connections.
- Don’t overshare personal info on social media.
- Avoid sending personal information from your phone.
- Backup your data.
*More information on these general guidelines can be found on the FTC website