Key Facts
- A massive data breach affected over 70 million people’s personal data.
- Email addresses, passwords, phone numbers, Social Security numbers, birthdates, and account numbers may be leaked.
- The leak could lead to identity theft and financial account hacking.
What Can Happen If Your Data Is Leaked?
Personal information theft can have serious repercussions. Cybercriminals can steal your identity, start fake accounts, or commit financial fraud. Leaked Social Security numbers are a common target for individuals seeking loans or credit in your name, so it’s important to monitor your accounts for strange activity.
Even if your Social Security number is safe, a compromised email and password may pose security risks. Online accounts are vulnerable to hackers, exposing personal data and financial damages.
What’s Being Done to Fix It?
The breached company is resolving the issue. They offer free identity theft and credit monitoring to victims. Users are receiving email and snail mail notifications about safety and next steps.
Unfortunately, other organizations, notably in the telecommunications sector, have experienced similar breaches, where vast amounts of personal data are held.
How to safeguard personal data?
Proactive security is essential to prevent data breaches. Here are some effective methods:
Use Strong Passwords
Use symbols, numbers, and capital and lowercase letters to create complex passwords. Avoid using guessable birthdays or pet names. You should also use distinct passwords for each account to avoid a domino effect if one is compromised.
Avoid Free Wi-Fi
Connect to unprotected public Wi-Fi networks only with a reliable VPN. Such networks often lack security, leaving your data vulnerable.
Limit Oversharing
Share personal information online with caution. Avoid sharing personal information like your birth date or travel plans, which fraudsters could use to target you.
Be Cautious with Links and Attachments
Check emails before clicking links or downloading attachments. Phishing assaults hide malware in seemingly harmless emails, so check the sender’s identification and look for red indicators.
FAQ
If my data is compromised, what should I do?
Search your bank and credit accounts for illegal activity and consider putting a fraud warning on your credit report.
How can I detect identity theft on my credit?
Authorized companies offer free credit reports and credit monitoring services to warn you to unusual activity.
What constitutes a strong password?
Strong passwords eliminate guessable information by using uppercase and lowercase characters, numbers, and symbols.
How can I secure my internet accounts?
Password-protect each account, use two-factor authentication, and avoid important transactions on public Wi-Fi.
Why should personal information be limited online?
Oversharing can let thieves do identity theft and phishing by revealing your identify.
