It has occurred: You’ve been breached. Maybe AI was employed to mimic you, your Instagram account got compromised, or you fell victim to doxxing. Digital security and privacy are essential for all, especially when your career hinges on your online standing and social media profiles. It is critical to steer clear of scams and to focus on your digital security.

“There is a level of information available that makes us more exposed than ever to privacy and security threats,” stated Patrick Ambron, founder and CEO of BrandYourself.com and HelloPrivacy.com, and leader of privacy solutions at Array, during VidCon 2025.

In the session “Hacked: Creator Privacy & Security,” Array provided advice for maintaining safety online in three key domains: physical protection against stalkers and doxxers, cybersecurity safeguards from ransomware and account hacks, and brand integrity against deepfakes and impersonators. Here are a few recommendations from Ambron to stay protected from doxxing and more online:

**Physical protection: Reduce the publicly available information**
1. Eliminate your presence from data brokers and people search websites.
2. Search for yourself on Google and remove what you can.
3. Remove photos from real estate websites and Google.
4. Review social media and erase unnecessary personal details.
5. Utilize a P.O. Box or a virtual business address for fan correspondence and business inquiries.
6. Avoid using your personal phone or address on any materials.

**Brand reputation: Be cautious about what you disclose**
1. Steer clear of photos that provide location hints, such as license plates, house fronts, street signs, addresses, or scenic views.
2. Set Google Alerts for your name, username, and brand terms to keep an eye out for deepfakes and impersonation.
3. Conduct reverse image searches regularly.
4. Confirm the authenticity of all your official accounts.

**Cybersecurity measures**
1. Protect your most critical accounts by running a dark web scan, enabling two-factor authentication, utilizing a password manager, and overseeing permissions for account access.
2. Use a distinct email for financial transactions.
3. Complete a Google Privacy assessment.
4. Employ an Ad-Blocker.
5. Use secure browsing and search platforms like DuckDuckGo, Brave, or Tor.

If you find yourself compromised or targeted, Ambron advises to alert the platform right away. File reports promptly, utilize copyright or DCMA claims, take advantage of new legislation like the Take It Down Act, and inform your audience. Nonetheless, rectifying a compromise can be extremely challenging, so taking proactive measures is vital.

Do you have a tale about a scam or security breach that affected you? Email [email protected] with the subject line “Safety Net” or utilize this form. A representative from Mashable will reach out.

Mashable will be onsite at the Anaheim Convention Center this week, reporting live from VidCon 2025. Return to Mashable.com, where we will be speaking with your favorite creators, covering the latest trends, and discussing how creators are expanding their followings, influence, and earning a living online.