January 21, 2026 
Realising that something may be wrong with your technology can be unsettling. Whether it’s a suspicious email, an unexpected login alert, or a device behaving strangely, the first reaction is often panic, followed by uncertainty about what to do next.
If you think you may have been hacked, acting calmly and quickly can make a significant difference.
1. Stop and don’t interact further
If you’ve received a suspicious message, email, or pop-up warning or speaking with the hacker on the phone:
- Hang up immediately
- Switch off the computer
- Don’t click links
- Don’t reply
- Don’t call any phone numbers shown
- Don’t download anything
Many scams are designed to escalate once you interact. Stopping immediately helps prevent further damage.
2. Disconnect the affected device (if needed)
If a device is behaving very strangely, constant pop-ups, sudden loss of control, or unusual activity, disconnecting it from the internet can help contain the issue.
This may mean:
- Turning off Wi-Fi
- Unplugging a network cable
- Pausing use of the device
If you’re unsure whether to disconnect or how to do it safely, it’s better to pause and seek advice first.
3. Change passwords, but do it safely
If you believe login details may have been compromised:
- Change passwords from a known safe device
- Prioritise email, banking, and cloud accounts
- Avoid reusing old passwords
Changing passwords too quickly or from an affected device can sometimes make matters worse, so it’s important to take a considered approach.
4. Watch for warning signs of compromise
Some signs that may indicate a breach include:
- Password reset emails you didn’t request
- Login alerts from unfamiliar locations
- Files missing or renamed
- Emails sent from your account without your knowledge
- New software you don’t recognise
One sign alone doesn’t always mean you’ve been hacked, but patterns matter.
5. Get professional advice early
The sooner an issue is assessed, the easier it is to contain and resolve.
A trusted IT support provider can:
- Check devices for malware or unauthorised access
- Secure compromised accounts
- Identify how the issue occurred
- Explain what’s happening in plain English
- Advise on the safest next steps
For businesses, early action can protect systems and data. For home users, it can prevent days of stress and disruption.
6. Don’t be embarrassed, it happens
Modern scams are extremely convincing. Being caught out doesn’t mean you were careless or inexperienced.
Cybercriminals rely on urgency, authority, and emotional pressure. The important thing is recognising when something feels wrong and responding appropriately.
Final thoughts: trust your instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
The safest response is to pause, avoid acting alone, and seek calm, professional advice before taking further action.
Call Geeks on Wheels on 0203 051 7977, and one of our Tech Experts can advise on the next steps, help you understand what’s happened, and guide you safely through the process without jargon or pressure.
Sometimes reassurance is just as important as a fix.
Geeks on Wheels London Limited
Award-winning, trusted for over 21 years.
Which Trusted Trader Partner | Cyber Essentials Certified | ICO Compliant
Mobile on-site and remote IT support you can rely on.
Geeks on Wheels London Ltd: Tel 0203 051 7977
