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Someone accessed my device

Act promptly, but don't panic. If someone you don't trust can access or control your device, disconnect it from the internet as soon as possible. We'll guide you through what to do next.

Don't panic, but act promptly. Disconnecting can help stop someone controlling your device.

Disconnect the device

iPhone: Open Control Centre (swipe down from the top-right on newer models, or up from the bottom on models with a Home button). Tap the ✈ Airplane Mode symbol. Check that Wi-Fi is off too. To switch Wi-Fi off fully, use Settings → Wi-Fi.
Android: Swipe down from the top of the screen to open Quick Settings, sometimes twice. Turn on ✈ Airplane Mode and check the Wi-Fi ◉ setting is off. The controls vary by phone.
Windows: Select the network or Wi-Fi icon near the clock and switch Wi-Fi off. If a network cable is plugged in, unplug it.

Airplane Mode can leave Wi-Fi enabled on some devices, so check both. If you cannot disconnect and someone appears to be controlling the device, switch it off completely. That usually interrupts active remote control, but it does not remove unwanted software.

What next?

From another trusted device, contact your bank promptly if banking information or payments may be involved.
Use a safe device to change passwords for any accounts the person may have seen or used.
Ask a trusted technician to check for remote-access software or other unwanted changes before using the affected device for sensitive tasks.

Tell someone you trust. There's no shame in what happened, and having someone alongside you can make the next steps easier.

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