Apple Event: May 7th at 7 am PT

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Email was hacked; what to do?

I am running version 10.8.5 on an iMac 27" (2011 model) and recently had the hard drive replaced. I noticed I was not getting emails and checked the email setup to find someone else's address in my incoming mail window. I put in my correct address and it changed back to the hacked address as soon as I opened Apple Mail. I deleted all info for this account and am using internet mail for the time. I need some advise for what to do. Is there some software that can remove this virus or do I need to take it in for cleaning. I am using "Bitdefender" anti-virus, but it obviously didn't stop the hack. Any advise would be helpful.

Flegal

iMac, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.5), New hard drive 4-15-15

Posted on May 24, 2015 8:25 AM

Reply
3 replies

May 24, 2015 8:35 AM in response to Flegal

The only way a different email account could be set up is for someone to have access to your computer. Obviously, the repair place did - was this an authorized service provider? I would ask them. Or, do you have internet file sharing or any kind of sharing enabled?


Second, regarding bitdefender: such software wouldn't find anything like that - they may find a virus which is something different. And, read this and think about uninstalling that software (there are many other threads here if you search for it):


Is Bitdefender virus scan worth it?


There is no need to take it anywhere to "clean" it - you can easily do this yourself. You will need to have a backup of your files; then use internet recovery (press Command + Option + R keys during boot up); when you get to the Utilities screen, use Disk Utility to erase your hard drive completely, and then reinstall your OS. Erasing it would be the safest and easiest way to "clean" it as you will start over with a new system - you just need to make sure you have a backup of all your files.

Email was hacked; what to do?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple ID.