What to Do If You’re Hacked in the Caribbean

It started with a news alert. Venture Credit Union, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s longstanding financial institutions, confirmed it had been the target of a cyberattack. Within hours, social media was buzzing with speculation. By the next day, experts revealed that sensitive customer data such as national IDs, utility bills, even addresses, had surfaced on the dark web, all thanks to a ransomware group linked to Russia. 

Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated case. Over the past five years, we’ve seen big names like TSTT, NIB, Massy, and ANSA McAL fall victim to hackers. If these giants can be breached, imagine how vulnerable the average Caribbean brand’s Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or WhatsApp account might be. 

And here’s the hard truth: in our region, where social platforms often double as storefronts, job boards, and personal brand hubs, one hacked account isn’t just an inconvenience. It can mean loss of income, damaged reputation, or even identity theft. 

So, how do you protect yourself and what should you do if the worst happens? 

How to Protect Your Social Media Accounts 

Think of your social media like your home. You wouldn’t leave your doors open or your keys under the mat. The same goes for your accounts: 

• Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Don’t recycle “Trini123” across every platform. Yea, we know. Use a mix of numbers, symbols, and cases, or better yet, a password manager. 

• Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Whether it’s a code to your phone or an authenticator app, 2FA makes it much harder for someone to break in, even if they have your password. 

• Be Wary of Phishing Scams: Caribbean users are often targeted with WhatsApp messages like “Look at this video of you!” or fake job offers. If it looks suspicious, it probably is. 

• Limit What You Share Publicly: The less personal data you put out there, the less ammo hackers have. Keep birthdays, addresses, and ID details private. 

What to Do If You Get Hacked 

Even with precautions, hacks happen. Here’s your action plan: 

• Act Immediately: Change your password on the compromised account and any linked accounts (like the same login email). 

• Enable Recovery Options: Make sure your recovery email and phone number are correct so you can regain access quickly. 

• Notify Your Network: If your account is sending strange messages, warn your contacts so they don’t fall for scams in your name. 

• Report It: Use the platform’s official channels (e.g., Meta’s hacked account recovery for Facebook/Instagram). 

• Monitor Your Identity: Just like Venture members were warned, keep an eye on unusual financial activity, credit card charges, or new accounts opened in your name. 

Cybercrime is not “a foreign problem.” It’s happening right here in the Caribbean. The Venture Credit Union attack is another wake-up call that digital security is now community security. 

So, whether you’re a small business owner selling on Instagram, a young professional networking on LinkedIn, or just someone who doesn’t want their personal life exposed, the rule is simple: secure your accounts before someone else does. 

And if the hackers come knocking? Don’t panic. Act fast, stay transparent, and protect both your data and your digital reputation. Click here to learn more on how to navigate cyberattacks in the Caribbean. 

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