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If something goes wrong

First: it happens to careful people, and it is almost always fixable. Take a breath, then work through the steps.

In short

If you think an account was taken over

  1. Use a device you trust (not the one that may be infected) to change the password. Start with your email, then the account in question.
  2. Turn on two-step sign-in if it was not on.
  3. Sign out of all other sessions and remove devices you do not recognise.
  4. Check the email settings for forwarding rules or filters you did not make. Attackers hide there.
  5. Tell your contacts not to open anything odd sent from you.
  6. Contact the platform through its official help page.

If you clicked a link or opened a file

  1. Disconnect the device from the internet.
  2. If you typed a password anywhere, change it now from another device, and change any other account that used the same password.
  3. Run a full scan with your system's security tool. If it finds something, or you are still worried, back up your files and reset the device.
  4. Watch your accounts and bank for odd activity.

If you paid or shared card details

Call your bank straight away, using the number on your card. Ask them to block the card and look at the payment. The sooner the better.

If your work was copied or leaked

Save evidence (screenshots with dates and the address), use the platform's copyright report form, and see the Protect your music and videos guide.

Tell us about DarkDeck problems

If a problem involves DarkDeck, such as a bug that exposed something, a copy of your work posted here, or a suspicious upload, tell us on the About page (Feedback section) and start the message with the word SECURITY. Give the address of the page and what you saw. We read it and act. Please do not include passwords or private details in the message.

Help from the authorities

In the UK, the National Cyber Security Centre publishes clear advice, and Action Fraud takes reports. In the US, see reportfraud.ftc.gov.

General guidance, kept up to date as best we can. It is not legal or professional advice.

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