Protect Yourself From Hackers

We’re continuing our series on cybersecurity tips. Previously, we’ve covered the importance of using complex passwords, strong network security and watching out for phishing attacks. These are all great strategies for protecting yourself from cyber thieves. However, do you know how to tell if you have become the victim of a hack? Read on to find out.

How to Tell if Your Computer has Been Hacked

Your computer is an attractive target for cyber criminals. They will often try to get you to download malware or visit a malicious site in order to gain access to your computer. Here are warning signs that may indicate your computer has been hacked:

• Popup messages (not from your real antivirus program) alerting you of malware on your computer. These messages typically use the names or logos of actual antivirus software and pressure you to act immediately. Once users click the button to “download”, “prevent attack” or “remove threats”, you are asked to run or install the malware. Infection then occurs after file installation.  


• Browser changes such as strange toolbars, add-ons or a new home page.


• Unknown applications running on your computer.

How to Help Protect Your Computer

• Minimize use of your computer’s administrator account by setting up limited rights and permissions for routine internet use.


• Many organizations use a proxy to restrict internet accessibility and to prevent unauthorized programs from running. A proxy acts as an intermediary between your computer and the internet. They can restrict internet content and block malicious websites. 


• You can help make sure your children don’t fall prey to hackers by using Microsoft’s family features or Apple’s parental controls.


• Run daily or weekly antivirus scans.

How to Watch for Identity Theft

In the wrong hands, your personal information can be used for a variety of fraudulent activities such as false tax return filings or online account take-overs. Warning signs of identity theft can include: 

• Unfamiliar accounts on your credit report.


• Unrecognized withdrawals from your bank account.


• A notification from the IRS that more than one tax return was filed in your name, or that you have income from an employer you don’t work for.


• Inability to log in into online accounts.

How to Respond to Identity Theft

• If you suspect you have fallen victim to identity theft, file an Identity Theft Affidavit and create an Identity Theft Report. You can file your report online, by phone at (877) 438-4338 or (866) 653-4261 for TDD or by mail at 600 Pennsylvania Ave, Washington DC 20580.


• Capitol Federal® customers who notice unauthorized transactions from an account should contact customer service at (888) 822-7333. If it is after regular business hours, customers can immediately deactivate their card by calling (888) 587-8258.


• File a police report. 


• Contact the credit reporting agencies to place a fraud alert on your credit report. 


• Set up online banking transaction alerts. 


• Change your passwords.

Additional Tips for Protecting Yourself

• Shred sensitive documents. Capitol Federal hosts annual free Shred Days in our communities. 


• Use a password manager and enable two-factor authentication. 


• Take care when shopping online by using reloadable cards, such as Capitol Federal’s True Blue® Money prepaid debit card. 

To learn more about cybersecurity, check out our previous blog posts in this series:

Protecting the Keys to Your Kingdom 

Don’t Get Hooked by Phishing Scams

Wi-Fi Security Tips

« Back to Blog

Categories: Safety and Security