By | The New York Times
Q. Does Google have a precise protocol for restoring a hacked Gmail account?
A. Google has two plans of action for compromised Gmail accounts, and the one you use depends on whether you can still sign in to the hacked account. Even if you suspect that your account has been hacked, try logging in anyway.
Comment by Rose Law Group estate planning attorney Tim Heileman:
“Accessing hacked email accounts is just one of many issues to consider regarding online information. Consider also what the result would be if something happened to you, and another needed access to your digital accounts: is there someone who knows your passwords? the answers to your security questions? As people increasingly rely on digital accounts to access vital information—such as bills needing paid or bank account information—the ability for others to access this information can become more difficult without preparation. More than once I have seen situations where, after the death of a loved one, family members are certain the deceased had more cash accounts than they are able to account for—or bonds that are now issued digitally rather than in paper form—but the family cannot locate them. The family members watch the mail box, hoping something will arrive that will help them identify the deceased’s assets. These difficulties can typically be avoided by strategic communication with family or trusted friends. A little thought today can avoid a lot of future frustration.”
