Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsIf you think malware may have exposed your passwords or personal information, stop using the affected device for banking, shopping, or account logins. From a device you trust, secure your most important accounts—especially email and financial accounts—then clean the affected device and report any identity or financial misuse. You do not have to confirm exactly what was stolen before taking these steps.
First, stop entering sensitive information on the device
Do not use a device you suspect is infected to change passwords, access your bank, shop, or enter other sensitive details. The FTC advises people to stop logging into accounts from a device where malware may be present. Use another device you trust, such as a separate computer or phone, for account recovery and password changes.
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A slow device by itself does not prove that malware stole information. Other possible warning signs include crashes, browser redirects, unfamiliar toolbars or pop-ups, disabled system tools, or messages you did not send. Treat suspicious activity seriously, but do not assume one symptom establishes what happened. FTC malware guidance
Clean up the device safely
- Update your security software. Use security software already installed or another trusted tool, then run a scan and remove the files it identifies.
- Get help from a source you trust if needed. If malware remains or you are not sure how to proceed, contact the device manufacturer or a support company you already know. Do not call a number shown in an unexpected pop-up or respond to an unsolicited security ad; fake warnings and software ads can lead to scams or more malware. FTC malware guidance
- Return to sensitive tasks only from a device you trust. Do not use the suspect device to reset passwords while it may still be infected.
Secure accounts from a trusted device
Start with your email and financial accounts
Secure your email early. Someone who controls your inbox may be able to receive password-reset links and take over other accounts. Protect it with a strong, unique password and two-factor authentication (2FA). Then prioritize bank, payment, and other accounts where unauthorized access could cause immediate harm. FTC account-recovery guidance
#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5 NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
Change exposed and reused passwords
Change the password for any account whose credentials may have been exposed. Also change that password anywhere else you reused it; a password change on only one service does not protect the other accounts that share it. Use a different, strong password for each account. A password manager is an optional way to help keep unique passwords organized.
Turn on two-factor authentication
Enable 2FA wherever it is available, and check that each account’s recovery email address and phone number belong to you. Services may offer text or email codes, authenticator apps, or physical security keys. The FTC describes security keys as the strongest 2FA method; availability and compatibility vary by service and device. FTC guidance on two-factor authentication
Rank #2
- FIDO2 & Passkey Ready: Business-ready and FIDO2 L1 certified. This key is supported by major management suites and is ideal for both individual and enterprise deployment. Works seamlessly with Gmail, Facebook, GitHub, Dropbox, Coinbase, and more.
- Dedicated Manager App: Use the Thetis Manager App for the initial hardware PIN setup. Setting the PIN on the device first ensures a smooth registration process. Once the PIN is configured, you can begin registering the key across your favorite FIDO2-compatible online services.
- Universal Connectivity (USB-C, USB-A, & NFC): Designed for PCs, Macs, iPhones, and Android. For mobile use, simply unfold the key, align it with your phone’s NFC antenna, and hold for a few seconds to authenticate.
- Enhanced MFA (FIDO2 & TOTP/HOTP): Strengthen your security with flexible options. Use the Manager App to access TOTP/HOTP features for accounts that do not yet support FIDO2.
- Check FIDO2 compatibility before purchase - Known limitations: ID Austria is not supported (requires FIDO2 Level 2). Windows Hello login only works with Windows Enterprise editions that support Entra ID. NFC is supported only through mobile authentication, Not MacOS/windows.
Check for signs someone still has account access
After you regain access to an account, use its security settings to sign out of all devices or sessions. Review email forwarding rules and check sent and deleted folders. For social accounts, review messages and unfamiliar contacts. Remove forwarding rules you did not create, and warn contacts to ignore suspicious links or requests for money sent from your account. FTC account-recovery guidance
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →If you cannot sign in, use the provider’s recovery process
Go directly to the service’s official website or app and follow its account-recovery process. Avoid recovery links in unsolicited messages or pop-ups. Once access is restored, change the exposed password and any reused versions, enable 2FA, verify recovery details, and review active sessions and account activity. FTC account-recovery guidance
Rank #3
- USB-C or tap via NFC for easy authentication on any compatible device. No drivers needed; optional Kensington software available for advanced management features.
- Works across Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, ChromeOS, and supports Passkeys and Apple ID.
- Slim, keychain-ready form for easy carry and on-the-go authentication
- IP68-rated for dependable performance
- FIDO CTAP 2.1 for enhanced security features (e.g. resident credentials, Passkey support) and backwards compatibility with CTAP 2. FIDO2 L2 certified security for phishing resistant protection against identity theft and unauthorized access.
Respond to identity theft or financial fraud
If personal information is being misused
In the United States, report identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov and follow the recovery plan it provides. Its recovery steps include a free one-year fraud alert placed through one of the three credit bureaus; a fraud alert can make it harder for someone to open new accounts in your name. IdentityTheft.gov recovery steps
If a bank or company account was affected
Contact the company or financial institution where the fraud occurred. Ask whether the affected account should be frozen or closed, and dispute unauthorized charges. FTC guidance also recommends contacting the relevant company when you have been scammed. FTC guidance on what to do if you were scammed
Rank #4
- Ultra-Compact FIDO2 Security Key - Plug-and-stay or carry on a keychain. This USB-A hardware security key offers portable, always-on protection for desktop and mobile use. (Item Size: 0.75 X 0.74 IN x 0.25 IN)
- USB-A Hardware Key for All Devices - Works with USB-A ports on PC, Mac, Android, and other laptop/notebook device. Enables secure, cross-platform login with FIDO2.0 passkey support.
- FIDO Certified Security Key - Meets FIDO and FIDO2 standards. Works with Google, Microsoft, GitHub, Dropbox, and more. Please check service compatibility before purchase.
- Passwordless Login with Passkey - Supports passkey login via WebAuthn and CTAP2. Enjoy password-free sign-ins where supported. Not all websites or services currently support passkeys.
- Advanced Multi-Factor Authentication - Offers 200 FIDO2 passkey slots and 50 OATH-TOTP slots. Strong, flexible 2FA/MFA support across various apps and authentication platforms.
What to do if you are outside the United States
The reporting and credit-alert steps above are U.S.-specific. If you live elsewhere, use your country’s official identity-theft reporting service and credit-protection authorities, and contact any affected banks or companies directly.
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