Steps to Secure Your Email Account (From Highest to Lowest Security Levels):

  1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

    • Use a strong method such as app-based authentication (e.g., Google Authenticator, Authy) rather than SMS.
    • This adds a layer of protection by requiring a second verification step.

  2. Use a Strong and Unique Password

    • Create a long password with a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters.
    • Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts.

  3. Enable End-to-End Encryption

    • Use email services that offer end-to-end encryption (e.g., ProtonMail, Tutanota).
    • Encryption ensures only the sender and receiver can read the emails.

  4. Set Up Recovery Options Securely

    • Use a secondary email account or phone number that is also secure and regularly monitored.
    • Avoid using outdated or rarely accessed accounts for recovery.

  5. Monitor Account Activity

    • Regularly check your account’s activity log for unfamiliar logins or devices.
    • Log out of devices that you do not recognize.

  6. Be Wary of Phishing Emails

    • Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
    • Verify the sender's email address and watch for misspellings or unusual domains.

  7. Update Your Password Regularly

    • Change your password every 3–6 months.
    • Ensure it’s entirely different from previous passwords.

  8. Secure Your Devices

    • Keep your operating system, browser, and antivirus software up-to-date.
    • Avoid using public Wi-Fi for accessing your email unless you use a VPN.

  9. Disable Unnecessary Email Features

    • Turn off automatic email forwarding if not in use.
    • Restrict third-party app access to your email account.

  10. Avoid Using the Same Email for Sensitive and General Use

    • Use separate email accounts for personal, financial, and public use.
    • This reduces the risk of sensitive accounts being exposed through data breaches.

  11. Use Secure Browsers and Extensions

    • Access your email through secure browsers with privacy-focused extensions (e.g., HTTPS Everywhere, uBlock Origin).

  12. Logout and Avoid Staying Signed In

    • Always log out of your email account on shared or public devices.
    • Disable “Stay Signed In” features on devices you don’t fully trust.

  13. Enable Alerts for Suspicious Activity

    • Most email providers offer alerts for unusual login attempts or password changes.
    • Act promptly if you receive such notifications.

  14. Avoid Sharing Your Email Publicly

    • Refrain from sharing your email address on forums or public platforms to prevent spam and phishing attempts.

  15. Secure Physical Access

    • Protect devices with strong passcodes or biometrics to prevent unauthorized physical access to your email.

 

By implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your email account being hacked.

This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.