Ever get an email from a friend or family member that doesn't seem quite right? It may not "sound" like the person you know or might ask you to click on some random, unidentified link. Beware, someone could be trying to hack your email account.

How do I know I've been hacked? Here are a few sure signs:

· friends and family are getting emails or messages you didn't send;

· your "sent" messages folder has messages you didn't send, or it has been emptied; or

· you can't log into your email account.

What should I do if my email has been hacked?

Work fast. The hacker could be in the process of trying to deny you access to your account while you are just noticing the problem.

Change your password. Immediately change your e-mail account's password to keep the hacker from getting back into the account. Your new password should not be related to your old one.

And, change other passwords. As quickly as you can, update your other e-mail, financial and social media accounts. Never use the same password for multiple accounts.

Reclaim your account. If you're not so lucky, the hacker may have already changed your password, locking you out of your account. If that's the case, use the "forgot your password" link using your security questions or backup email address.

Scan your computer for malware. Run a full scan with your anti-malware program. If you don't have security software, get it from a reputable, well-known company (like McAfee or Symantec). Delete any suspicious software and restart your computer.

Tell your contacts. Send a quick email to your email list letting them know you've been hacked, and that they might have gotten a malicious link or a fake plea for help.

Check your email settings. Once you're back in your account, check your signature and "away" message for unfamiliar links and make sure messages aren't being forwarded to someone else's address.

For information about other scams, sign up for AARP's Fraud Watch Network at www.aarp.org.