In 1997, about 10 million people had a personal email account. By 2026, there are expected to be 4.26 billion email users worldwide. However, these decades-old ‘legacy’ email accounts have now become an entry point for fraudsters seeking access to financial details, raising alarm among police forces. Checking your email address on analyst websites such as ‘Have I been pwned’ can reveal if your account was involved in a data breach, exposing your password to scammers. If you’ve used the same combination of email and password across multiple accounts, a hacker can potentially compromise all those accounts.
If you don’t use it, delete it
Reducing Vulnerability by Deleting Unused Email Addresses
James Bore, a chartered security professional, advises that if your old email has been compromised in a known breach, you should immediately change your password. “An old email does leave you vulnerable,” he states. “The older an email is, the more likely it has been compromised in a breach and a password leaked.” If you haven’t made much use of the email, someone could impersonate you to obtain money or details from people in your contact list. Mr. Bore suggests deleting the email account completely if you don’t use it. “People forget to do it and then can leave a digital trail behind them, which hackers can exploit,” he warns.
Choosing a More Secure Email Provider
As there is no regulated list of email providers offering guaranteed protection against scamming activities, it’s crucial to research and find a provider that prioritizes security. Additionally, be proactive about phishing scams and strengthen all your accounts with robust passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication. If you suspect a scammer has access to your email account, work with your email provider to secure the account and notify your contacts about the potential hack.
Identity Theft: Phone Numbers at Risk Too
Besides email addresses, hackers can also exploit phone numbers to carry out identity theft, financial fraud, and other malicious activities. It’s essential to stay vigilant and lookout for warning signs of identity theft to avoid being a victim.
- Monitor your credit reports regularly for unauthorized activity
- Be cautious when clicking on links in text messages, especially from unknown senders.
- Use multi-factor authentication whenever possible
- Change passwords immediately if you suspect any breach
Digital Security Measures: Resources and Tools
Aura 101: Gain insights into the benefits of Aura’s all-in-one plan through their informational video resources. Develop a better understanding of navigating your online safety and choosing comprehensive protection.
The Digital Talk: As parents and guardians, ensure your children’s safety by discussing best practices for online behavior and setting guidelines for device usage. Stay updated on the latest risks and trends to guarantee the digital well-being of your family.
Recognizing Identity Theft: Warning Signs
Constant vigilance is crucial in these times where data breaches are prevalent. Here are some telltale signs that someone may have stolen your identity:
- Unfamiliar transactions on your bank statement
- Unexpected credit card charges
- Missing mail or emails containing sensitive information
- Unsolicited account statements or notifications
- Denial of a loan or credit card application due to poor credit history that doesn’t match your records
If you notice any of these red flags, take immediate action such as contacting your financial institution or filing an identity theft report. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.
In Conclusion: Be Proactive and Vigilant
It’s essential to protect old email accounts by changing passwords, deleting unused accounts, and choosing secure providers. Remain cautious about potential phishing emails or attempts to compromise online accounts if scammers have access to your email address. By using strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and monitoring for warning signs of identity theft, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to fraudsters. Stay informed, vigilant, and proactive to ensure the safety of your digital life.
