FOR at least the third time, my e-mail account has been hacked.
Again, I don't know how it has happened; I am able to go into what is now my old account and I never bother opening anything that comes up as spam.
What's more, it is not as if I've been targeted specifically as the bogus letters sent supposedly on my behalf are of the standard variety that crop up in spam.
You might be aware of the kind of thing if you are an internet user.
They're badly written, spell your name wrong and say you've been stranded abroad, short of money.
Those close to me will, however, be aware of the fact that I don't have a passport and haven't left the UK this millennium.
So really, anyone can be hacked – which is worrying.
You see, it isn't just the nuisance of having to get a new e-mail account. That's relatively easy with a bit of help.
Rather, it is the fact we are being encouraged to do more and more of our business online.
Indeed, I write this as the new Universal Credit is being trialled.
This benefit, eventually to apply to all those of working age who qualify, is being handled entirely through the internet.
Claimants will have to have an online account.
But what will happen if something goes wrong and people can't, as a result, access their money?
It is a worrying thought in view of the ease in which hackers seem to operate.
Incidentally, this First Person piece is being written in pen and delivered by hand – I feel safer that way!