15/10/2026
🚨 Hacked? The first 60 minutes matter most.
Your password stops working, a client says your WhatsApp sent them something strange, or your bank flags a payment you never made. Here’s what to do straight away:
✅ Change the password on a device you trust
✅ Log out of all devices
✅ Switch on two-step verification
✅ Check your email for forwarding rules you didn’t set up
✅ Call your bank on the number on your card, not one from an SMS
✅ Warn your clients and contacts
Don’t panic-delete anything. You may need the evidence later.
I wrote a full step-by-step guide for South African freelancers and small business owners, including WhatsApp hijacks, SIM swaps and POPIA:
👉 https://cybertaries.blogspot.com/2026/10/hacked-what-to-do-in-first-hour.html
Has this ever happened to you or someone you know? Tell us below 👇