Email Account Compromise
Guidance for recovering a compromised email account. Your email is often the key to your other online accounts, so securing it quickly is critical. The steps below are based on recommendations from the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC).
This is general guidance only. For personal advice and support, visit the Australian Cyber Security Centre's email recovery guide.
Immediate Actions
Check Your Finances
If your email is linked to any banking or financial services, contact your bank immediately to check for unauthorised transactions and secure your accounts.
Recover Your Account
Change your email password immediately. If you have been locked out, use your email provider's account recovery tools.
Sign Out of All Devices
Most email providers (like Gmail, Outlook, iCloud) have an option to "Sign out of all other sessions" or "Manage devices". Use this to disconnect the attacker.
Secure & Clean Up
Check for Suspicious Activity
Look for:
- Forwarding rules sending copies of your emails to another address.
- Deleted emails (check Trash/Deleted Items).
- Sent emails you didn't write.
Change Other Passwords
If you reused your email password on other sites, change them immediately. If the attacker had access to your email, they may have reset passwords for other services (social media, shopping, etc.).
Notify Your Contacts
Let your friends and colleagues know your account was compromised so they can ignore any suspicious emails or scam requests sent from your account.
Prevent Future Attacks
Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds a second layer of security (like a code on your phone) and is the most effective way to prevent account takeover. Enable it on your email and all important accounts.
Secure Your Device
Run a scan with your antivirus software to ensure your computer or phone doesn't have malware that stole your password.
Reporting & Assistance
If you have questions about how these steps apply to your Savant Private accounts, contact [email protected].
Last reviewed March 2026