Emergency Response Guide
Your step-by-step guide for handling online security incidents
Important: Read through this guide now and prepare before an emergency happens. Having a plan makes handling problems much easier.
How to Document Incidents
Windows PC
- Press Windows + Shift + S to open screenshot tool
- Click and drag to select area
- Open Paint or Word and press Ctrl + V to paste
- Save the file with date and description
Mac
- Press Cmd + Shift + 3 for full screen
- Press Cmd + Shift + 4 to select area
- Find screenshot on desktop
- Rename with date and description
Smartphone
- iPhone: Press Side + Volume Up buttons
- Android: Press Power + Volume Down
- Find in Photos/Gallery app
- Share to secure location or email to yourself
Before an Emergency - Be Prepared:
- Create an emergency contact list with verified numbers
- Practice taking screenshots on your devices
- Save emergency numbers with clear names (e.g., "BANK-FRAUD")
- Keep important account numbers (not passwords!) in a secure place
Common Problems You Might Face
How to recognize and respond to common security issues
Important Contact Information
Keep these numbers handy - write them down or save them in your phone
Local Police (Non-Emergency)
For reporting scams and fraud
Call your local police department's non-emergency number
Federal Trade Commission
Report scams and identity theft
1-877-FTC-HELP or visit ftc.gov/complaint
Getting Back to Normal
Steps to take after the immediate problem is handled
If You Gave Out Personal Information
- Change passwords on affected accounts
- Contact your bank if financial information was shared
- Monitor your accounts for strange activity
- Consider placing a credit freeze
If You Clicked a Suspicious Link
- Disconnect from the internet
- Run your antivirus program if you have one
- Change passwords from a different device
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity
If Money Was Taken
- Contact your bank immediately
- File a police report
- Keep all documents and communications
- Tell your family or trusted friends what happened