TalkTalk hack: How to protect yourself

Change your password

As soon as the website is up and running again change your password.

For TalkTalk this is simple:

Log into My Account.
Click on Account Details.
Click on My details.
Click Edit broadband password.
Enter the new password in the “Enter new broadband password” box and click Confirm.
You will receive confirmation in your email inbox that the password has been changed.

Change other passwords

If you use the same login details for other accounts to ensure extra security it is worth changing these too. If you can remember them it is worth having different passwords for different services so that they are not compromised by one hack.

Use a combination of letters, numbers and punctuation… and although it seems impossible, try not to write them down.

Monitor your TalkTalk account

TalkTalk is telling all its customers to watch their accounts closely over the next few months.

If you see any unusual activity, they recommend you contact your bank and Action Fraud as soon as possible.

Be aware of people claiming to be calling from TalkTalk

If you get a call from them in the coming months be on your guard.

Don’t give out personal details and if you want to be extra safe you can hang up with them and call them back on the official TalkTalk customer service number.

Clean up your inbox

Check your inbox, sent items, and other folders for any unusual-looking activities. If there are accounts set up in your name without your knowledge get in touch with named websites or companies and get them to delete them as soon as possible.

Be careful what you store in your inbox – avoid storing passwords and PIN numbers here so that if somehow hackers do get in they won’t be handed a guide to all your private information.

Don’t give out any details

Your bank will not ring you and ask you to give out personal information or bank account information. If someone claims to be doing so, hang up and call your bank or the company they claim to be calling from on the official customer service number to check – that way you know exactly who you are talking to.

Emails pretending to be from your bank can also be sophisticated and believable – do not reply. Contact the bank via its official customer service number or go into your branch to check. They will be able to tell you whether they have been in touch.

Check your credit report

TalkTalk has advised customers to keep an eye on their credit reports with the main credit agencies: Call Credit, Experian and Equifax. This should reveal anyone running up debts in your name.

If you spot any unusual activity call your bank or Action Fraud.

Change your card details

This is probably unnecessary but for extra protection you can get replacement credit cards or debit cards and pin numbers for the cards registered with TalkTalk. Your bank will be able to help with this.