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Data breaches frequently occur in today’s digital world. In fact, estimates suggest that breaches expose the personal information of over 111.7 million Americans annually. Consequently, major retailers, subscription services, and online platforms all face this risk.
Types of Data Breaches and Self-Protection
Hackers sweep up names, email addresses, passwords, and other sensitive data for fraudulent activities. Moreover, breaches typically affect trusted institutions like retailers and banks, as well as entities like credit bureaus and marketing firms that acquire user data secondarily. Nevertheless, the good news is that you can protect yourself and minimize breach impacts.
Immediate Actions to Mitigate Data Breach Damage
Upon receiving a data breach notification, it is important you act immediately to reduce the damage. While good cybersecurity habits can help protect yourself but cannot always prevent breaches. Additionally, human errors in organizations and businesses can expose your information to threats.
Essential Steps to Take After a Data Breach
Stay Informed: Set up news alerts or company updates to track breach developments. This approach ensure you are aware of any breaches and actions being taken to address the data breach.
Understand Compromised Data: Know what specific information the breach exposed. This knowledge helps you take appropriate action to protect your information from further exposure.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: This step adds an additional security layer to your online accounts.
Change Passwords: Update all passwords, especially for compromised accounts. Use strong and unique passwords. Consider using a password manager such as 1Password.
Monitor Credit and Finances: Watch for unusual activities in your accounts. You can request a free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.)
Beware of Phishing: Stay alert to avoid revealing personal information. Be skeptical of emails, messages, or phone calls asking for personal information or directing you to click suspicious links. Do NOT click on suspicious links or providing sensitive information through email or phone calls. When in doubt, contact the organization directly through its official website or phone number to verify the request.
Report Identity Theft: Contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov if you suspect identity theft. This resource will guide you through the necessary steps to recover from identity theft and protect yourself from further harm.
Create Strong Passwords: Use complex passwords for each online account. Use a different password for each online account to minimize risk of exposure.
Update Software Regularly: Ensure your systems have the latest security updates.
Limit Shared Information: Be cautious about what personal details you post online.
Use Secure Wi-Fi: Always choose password-protected networks over public Wi-Fi. When traveling enable a Verified Personal Network (VPN).
Backup Data Regularly: Prepare for data loss events by backing up your files.
No security measure guarantees complete safety. Thus, always stay vigilant and proactive in protecting your personal information. By following this checklist will help protect you from the consequences of a data breach. Remember to stay informed, secure your accounts, and report any suspicious activities.
