Unrequested password resets are warning signs hackers want your account

You’re checking your inbox or scrolling through your phone when something catches your attention. It’s a message about a password reset, but you never asked for one. 

It might have arrived by email, text message or even through an authenticator app. It looks legitimate, and it could be from a service you actually use. Still, something feels off.

Unrequested password reset messages are often an early warning sign that someone may be trying to access your account. In some cases, the alert is real. In others, it’s a fake message designed to trick you into clicking a malicious link. Either way, it means your personal information may be at risk, and it’s important to act quickly.

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10 SIGNS YOUR PERSONAL DATA IS BEING SOLD ONLINE

Why you’re receiving password reset emails you didn’t request

There are a few reasons this might happen:

• Someone is attempting unauthorized access: Hackers often test stolen credentials from data breaches to see where they still work. If they find an account tied to your email, triggering a password reset is one way they try to gain control.
• You are being targeted through phishing: Scammers send fake password reset emails or texts that look official. These often link to fake websites that steal your login credentials or install malware.
• You are experiencing a credential stuffing attack: This is when attackers use bots to flood login pages with known usernames and passwords. If anything matches, they will try to reset the password and lock you out.
• Your two-factor authentication is blocking the login: If you receive a prompt from your authenticator app but did not attempt to log in, it means someone has your correct password and is trying to break through your second layer of protection.
• You may be facing a SIM swap attempt: SMS-based two-factor authentication is vulnerable if someone hijacks your phone number. If you suddenly stop receiving texts or see password resets tied to SMS, contact your mobile provider immediately.

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

In some cases, the message is legitimate, as seen in the email below, but the request didn’t come from you. That is often a sign your login…