What To Do If You Get Hacked (Incident Response)
No matter how good your locks are, sometimes a window gets broken. If you click a bad link or find a virus, the most dangerous reaction is panic. Panic leads to deleting evidence or hiding the truth.
The “First Hour” Plan
You need a plan before the crisis. When adrenaline is pumping, you won't be able to think clearly.
Disconnect: If a computer is acting strangely, unplug the internet cable or turn off the Wi-Fi. This stops the infection spreading.
Report: Who do you tell? Don't be embarrassed. Secrets help hackers.
Verify: Call your bank immediately if financial data is involved.
Honesty is the Best Policy
If personal data has been stolen, you have a legal (and moral) duty to inform people. Hiding a breach destroys reputation. admitting it, apologising, and showing how you are fixing it builds resilience.
Note: In the UK, you may need to report to the ICO (Information Commissioner's Office) within 72 hours.
Your “Easy Win” for Today
Create a "Digital Emergency List." Write down the phone numbers for:
Your IT support (if you have any).
Your Bank’s Fraud Department.
Your Cyber Insurance Provider (check if your general insurance covers this!). Stick this list to the wall near the computer.
