How to Protect Your Email from Unauthorized Access: A Cautionary Tale

Navigating the complexities of a recent separation can be challenging, especially when dealing with issues of privacy and security. One individual recently shared their alarming experience of having their email accounts compromised by an ex-partner, raising significant questions about online safety and how to effectively safeguard sensitive information.

The Situation

After parting ways with a controlling ex-partner, this individual took every recommended precaution to secure their Gmail accounts, including changing passwords, logging out of all devices, and enabling two-step verification. Despite these efforts, they encountered an unsettling situation when their ex managed to gain access to their Facebook account, subsequently adding their own email addresses and removing the individual’s business email from the account. This maneuver effectively locked them out of their own business page, but they quickly adapted by creating new accounts.

The Unraveling Mystery

The real concern surfaced when they discovered that their ex had also infiltrated their personal email accounts. Reports indicated that crucial business communications were being deleted and sensitive information from solicitors was being accessed without permission. Alarmingly, this individual noted that their ex claimed one of the email accounts was “joint,” asserting a need for access to business emails—even though all accounts were solely in the individual’s name.

Urgency for Action

Faced with the terrifying reality of observing emails being opened while logged into their account, the individual felt a growing sense of vulnerability and confusion. How could this be happening despite their diligent security measures? This raises an essential question for anyone in a similar situation: Are there additional steps one can take to bolster email security and reclaim control over personal and business communications?

Steps to Enhance Email Security

If you find yourself in a situation similar to this, here are some proactive measures to consider:

Strengthen Your Passwords: Utilize complex and unique passwords for each account. Consider using a password manager to keep track of them.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): While this individual has already implemented this measure, it’s crucial to ensure that any recovery options (like backup codes or linked phone numbers) are not accessible to anyone but yourself.
Check Account Activity: Regularly review your account activity. Most email providers, including Gmail, allow you to see recent logins and the devices that have accessed your account.
Review Security Questions: Update any security questions to ones that are not easily guessable