deleted the filters and changed password.

i presume i was hacked somehow?

why would a hacker divert emails to MY archive? what's the play there?

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5794440&forum_id=2/#49408830)

i believe my email account was hacked. my email account has filters set up to direct emails from the inbox to my archive folder. why would a hacker have my emails directed to the archive folder?

>>>

ChatGPT said:

That’s a sharp observation — and you’re right to be concerned. When a hacker sets up email filters or rules that automatically move messages out of the inbox (e.g., into the archive, trash, or another folder), it’s a common sign of a targeted compromise rather than random spam.

Here’s why attackers do this:

To hide their activity from you.

If they’re using your email to send messages (like phishing emails or requests for money), they don’t want you to see the replies or security alerts that would expose them.

By diverting messages from the inbox, you might not notice warnings from your email provider, password resets, or suspicious login alerts.

To intercept specific messages.

Attackers sometimes set filters that forward or hide emails containing key terms like “bank,” “verification,” or “invoice.”

This allows them to capture sensitive information (like password resets, 2FA codes, or financial correspondence) before you see it.

To maintain silent access.

If they’re monitoring your communications (e.g., in a business or financial account), they want to keep you unaware for as long as possible.

(http://www.autoadmit.com/thread.php?thread_id=5794440&forum_id=2/#49408974)