Is your data in danger? A massive data breach by a company named National Public Data could have made billions of personal financial records vulnerable.
National Public Data, a consumer data broker, recently confirmed a significant data breach, potentially exposing sensitive information like names, addresses, and Social Security numbers of millions of Americans. This alarming incident is part of a growing trend of data breaches this year.
Wondering how to protect yourself from identity theft? Here are some crucial steps to consider.
FAQs
Q1: What should I do right away if my data was part of a breach?
A1: If your data was part of a breach, you should immediately place fraud alerts and credit freezes to protect your credit. Additionally, start monitoring your financial accounts closely for any unusual activity.
Q2: How can I find out if my personal information is on the dark web?
A2: To find out if your personal information is on the dark web, consider using dark web monitoring services that can alert you if your data is found. Also, be vigilant for signs such as unexpected account activity or notifications of identity theft.
Q3: Are credit monitoring services really worth the cost?
A3: Credit monitoring services can be worth the cost if you want added security and peace of mind. They offer several benefits, such as alerting you to suspicious activity and providing identity theft protection. When choosing a service, prioritize features like comprehensive monitoring and identity theft insurance.
How Does A Data Breach Impact Me?
National Public Data, a consumer data broker, confirmed last week that a hacker had targeted the company in December 2023, “with potential leaks of certain data in April 2024 and summer 2024.”1
Other reports indicate that this leaked data had been found on the dark web and could include the names, addresses, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers of millions of Americans.2
A data breach of this magnitude is especially worrisome, and is the latest in a string of major data breaches this year.3
If you’re wondering what you can do to help protect yourself against the growing threat of identity theft, here are some steps to consider.
How Do I Protect Myself After A Data Breach?
Be aware that after a data breach, scammers may step up impersonation attempts, even if they don’t actually have access to stolen data.
For example, someone allegedly from the Social Security Administration or IRS might contact you and ask you to verify your Social Security number or provide or update your personal information
However, government agencies will never send you an email or call you to ask for these types of information. Don’t respond, and promptly contact the appropriate government agency to report an identity theft attempt.
One way to reduce your risk after a data breach is to place a fraud alert or a credit freeze on your credit report. Both are free tools that can help you prevent fraud, but they work somewhat differently.
Protect Yourself With Fraud Alerts
A fraud alert is a notice placed on your credit report that warns potential creditors that your identity has been compromised.
It allows them to check your credit but requires them to take extra steps to verify your identity before issuing new credit in your name.
You can place a fraud alert by contacting one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), and that agency will notify the others.
An initial alert will last for one year, but can be extended to seven years if you have become an actual, rather than potential, victim of fraud
Protect Yourself With A Credit Freeze
A credit freeze (sometimes called a security freeze) may also help protect you if you suspect your personal information was stolen, but it’s more stringent.
Once you have a credit freeze in place, potential creditors won’t be able to access your credit report or credit score (there are some exemptions).
This helps prevent identity thieves from opening fraudulent accounts in your name.
To request a credit freeze, you will need to contact each of the three major credit reporting agencies. The credit freeze will stay in place until you decide to lift it, which you will need to do at least temporarily, before applying for credit.
A fraud alert or credit freeze can be set up online, by phone, or by mail, following each credit bureau’s instructions. This may also be a good time to request a free credit report so that you can check recent credit activity.
Here are the website addresses and phone numbers for each of the three major credit bureaus:
Equifax.com 888-298-0045
Experian.com 888-397-3742
Transunion.com 800-916-8800
How Do I Protect Myself From A Data Breach?
Consider subscribing to a credit monitoring service if you need extended support. These services come at a cost, but may bundle together credit report monitoring, credit report locks, scans of the dark web, help with recovering from identity theft, and identity theft insurance.
Periodically review your credit reports to spot suspicious activity. You can receive free weekly online reports from all three credit bureaus at the official site annualcreditreport.com.
Sign up for alerts for your bank, financial, and credit card accounts that will notify you when a transaction has occurred or someone has signed into your account. Check your accounts frequently and review your statements.
Best Practices For Online Security
Pick strong passwords that are different for each account, and change them periodically. For an extra layer of protection, use a password manager that generates strong, unique passwords that you control through a single master password.
Enable multifactor authentication when offered; in addition to providing a password, you may be required to enter a code sent to your phone or email, answer a security question, use a physical security key, or sign in using a facial or fingerprint scan.
Keep your device and security software up to date. Operating system and software updates may include security fixes. An easy way to do this is to turn on automatic updates.
How To Prevent Phishing Scams
Watch out for phishing attempts from scammers looking to obtain passwords or financial information.
Be cautious if you receive a link or attachment in your email or via social media. Don’t click on it until you can verify that it’s legitimate. Let unsolicited phone calls go to voicemail, and double-check phone numbers, even if they appear familiar or seem to come from a company that you normally do business with.
Data breaches are a growing threat, but by taking proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of identity theft. Implementing fraud alerts, monitoring your credit, and enhancing your online security are essential measures to protect your personal information. Stay informed and vigilant to safeguard your data in an increasingly digital world.
For more information about how to report and recover from identity theft, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website IdentityTheft.gov.
Contact your tax and financial advisors to determine the best moves for your situation.