IT & Cybersecurity · 2026-04-21 · by Cybergate Technology
Common signs of a compromise include staff locked out of accounts, unexpected password-reset emails, unfamiliar mailbox rules forwarding email, files suddenly encrypted or renamed, sluggish systems, and customers receiving spam from your address. Any one of these warrants immediate investigation.
Watch for account and email red flags
Unexpected MFA prompts, password resets you didn't request, or mailbox rules that auto-forward or delete email are classic signs of account takeover.
Look for ransomware indicators
Files renamed with strange extensions, ransom notes, or documents that won't open are signs of ransomware. Disconnect affected machines from the network immediately.
Notice performance and access changes
Sudden slowdowns, new admin accounts, disabled antivirus or unfamiliar software can indicate intrusion.
What to do first
Isolate affected devices, change passwords from a clean device, enable MFA, preserve evidence and call your IT/security provider. Do not pay a ransom before seeking professional advice - restoring from backup is often possible.
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