Ask Juan - Question and Answer
Passwords and Account Security
Question:
Recently someone hacked into one of my Yahoo e-mail accounts and changed the password. (They were kind enough to notify me of that on my Shaw e-mail address). However, I have no idea what the new password is, and I can't get help from Yahoo. Yahoo states that I have to give them certain information that I used when I registered that address with them. Well that is 4 or even 5 years ago. So I don't remember the info. I even sent them my phone number so that we could discuss the situation, and I get from 5 or 6 people the same form letter about confidentiality, and that is all the help I get. Is there anyway that I can get back to that e-mail address?
Answer:
The simple answer is NO. Not legally anyway. You could hack back into your account by guessing the password. In most likelihood, however, you will not be able to get it back unless you can remember the information you provided Yahoo when you created the account. There is a remote possibility that you have a record of that in your Shaw account.
That was the worst-case scenario. Now the alternative: Let's assume that you didn't use the word "hacked" in your first sentence, and that you accidentally changed your password or simply forgot it. Go to http://mail.yahoo.com . Find the link below the "Sign In" button that reads: "Forget your ID or password?" and click on it. It will take you to a verification form where you can request a new password.
Complete the form. You will need to remember your birthday, postal code, and country. I am sure you can remember those. On step 2 enter your Yahoo ID, and click the button: "Get NEW Password." You will be taken to another page where you will be asked a challenge question. For example, "What is your pet's name?" Type the response and click on "Display New Password."
As promised, the new password will appear on the screen. Along with your Yahoo ID and a link to log in and change your password to something you can remember. Write this password down because you are going to need it to log in and change it.
When you click on the "log in and change…" link, you will get a familiar screen. Supply your Yahoo ID and NEW password. The next screen will give you the opportunity to change the new (temporary) password. Fill in the form and click "Save." A confirmation screen will alert you that you have changed your password successfully.
What to do if you cannot remember the answers to your challenge questions? I say give up.
The more important issue at hand is protecting your identity. Change your passwords to other online accounts. Because chances are you have used the same password for other things, and some one you know or someone who knows you, KNOWS YOUR PASSWORD. Worse! A complete stranger knows your password.