Recover and Regain Control
When something goes wrong online, you need clear guidance — not panic. These emergency response guides walk you through exactly what to do, step by step, to recover from digital security incidents.
If You Are in an Active Crisis
If you believe your accounts or identity are actively being misused right now, go directly to the relevant guide below and follow the immediate action steps. You can read the background information later. The first hours matter most.
You Can Get Through This
Discovering that your accounts have been compromised, your identity has been stolen, or your reputation has been damaged online is deeply unsettling. It is natural to feel overwhelmed, angry, or anxious. But these situations are recoverable, and thousands of people navigate them successfully every day.
The guides in this section are designed as structured recovery protocols. Each one gives you a clear sequence of actions, organized by priority, so you know exactly what to do first and what can wait. Follow the steps in order, take breaks when you need them, and know that each step you complete moves you closer to resolution.
Compromised Accounts
EmergencyImmediate steps to regain control when an account has been taken over, locked out, or used without your permission.
Identity Theft Recovery
EmergencyA structured recovery protocol for when your personal information has been used to open accounts, make purchases, or commit fraud in your name.
Reputation Damage
Assess and respond to harmful content, leaked information, or false claims that are affecting your personal or professional reputation online.
How These Guides Work
Immediate Actions
Every guide starts with the most urgent steps. Do these first to stop further damage and stabilize the situation.
Systematic Recovery
Once the immediate threat is contained, follow the structured recovery steps to fully restore your security.
Future Prevention
Each guide ends with concrete steps you can take to reduce the risk of the same incident happening again.
Recovery Principles
No matter what kind of incident you are dealing with, these principles apply to every recovery scenario.
Act Quickly, but Do Not Rush
Speed matters in the first hours, but hasty mistakes can make things worse. Follow the steps methodically and double-check before taking irreversible actions.
Document Everything
Take screenshots, save emails, and write down dates and times. This documentation will be invaluable if you need to file reports or dispute fraudulent activity.
Use a Clean Device
If you suspect malware was involved, perform recovery steps from a different device that you trust. Do not change passwords on a device that may be compromised.
Ask for Help When Needed
There is no shame in seeking professional assistance. Some situations — especially identity theft and legal matters — benefit from expert guidance.