Hackers have every reason to want to infiltrate your inbox. For one, email is the most common form of web communication today. But more importantly, it’s the unique identifier for many online account logins, which is the reason it’s still highly targeted by cybercriminals.

Think about it: If your inbox has been hijacked, the malicious third party will most likely be able to a) find out what types of services and accounts you’re enrolled in and b) request password resets for one or more of those accounts. And since most password reset requests go directly through email, there really isn’t much you would be able to do to stop it. A circumspect cyberattacker will even cover his or her tracks (e.g., delete all those password reset emails) in an attempt to mask suspicious activity that would otherwise clue you into the intrusion. 

Once hacked, your email can be used for just about anything on the web. Cyberattackers can attempt to pilfer personal data acquired through an online account — including your credit card information. They may try to login to your online banking account. If that doesn’t work, they can Venmo themselves a lump sum of your money to a fake account and then cash out. Maybe they’ll start spamming your friends via email and social media in an attempt to steal even more information. This wouldn’t bode well for your reputation, and it could lead to a lot of disgruntled contacts.

Then there’s the worst-case scenario: identity theft. It happens to millions of Americans every year, and recently, it very nearly happened to a close friend of mine.