To check if your email ID has been compromised in a data breach (i.e., pwned), you can use trusted online tools designed for this purpose. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Use "Have I Been Pwned?"
"Have I Been Pwned?" is a popular and secure tool for checking if your email address has been part of a data breach.
Steps:
- Go to the Have I Been Pwned? website.
- Enter your email address in the search bar.
- Click on the “pwned?” button.
- The site will show you a list of breaches (if any) that your email has been part of, including the website names and the types of data exposed (like passwords, addresses, etc.).
2. Use DeHashed
Another tool for checking if your email has been compromised is DeHashed. This site checks not just emails but also usernames, passwords, and other personal information across breaches.
Steps:
- Visit the DeHashed website.
- Enter your email address in the search field.
- It will provide results of any breaches involving your email.
3. Firefox Monitor
Mozilla’s Firefox Monitor also allows you to check if your email has been involved in a data breach. It uses data from "Have I Been Pwned?".
Steps:
- Go to the Firefox Monitor website.
- Enter your email address.
- Check the results to see if your email was part of any breaches.
What to Do if Your Email Has Been Pwned:
- Change Your Passwords: Immediately update the password for any account associated with that email address. Use a strong, unique password.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security by enabling 2FA wherever possible.
- Use a Password Manager: Tools like LastPass or Bitwarden can help you create and store complex passwords securely.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your email for suspicious activity or unauthorized login attempts.
By using these services, you can quickly find out if your email has been compromised and take appropriate steps to secure your accounts