In a chilling reminder of our vulnerability in the digital age, news broke recently of a massive data breach at National Public Data (NPD), potentially exposing billions of personal records.
This frankly inexcusable breach, orchestrated by a sophisticated hacking group, compromised sensitive information including names, email addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, and mailing addresses for millions of individuals.
NPD's confirmation of the security incident underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to protect ourselves from the hell of identity theft and fraud.
Yup, they got me and my wife in this one, and we immediately took steps to protect ourselves.
Here’s what you need to do if you suspect your data may have been compromised, and how to protect yourself:
1. Check if You Were Exposed:
Start by visiting NPD’s website or reputable news sources for updates on the breach. Look for guidance on how to check if your personal information was among those compromised. Consider using trusted identity monitoring services that can alert you to any suspicious activity.
After the breach, cybersecurity firm Pentester assembled a free database containing the exposed information, with social security numbers and dates of birth redacted. They developed a search tool (click here) allowing individuals to check if their details were affected. By entering their name, state, and year of birth, users can instantly search through the billions of records compromised in the breach.
2. Freeze Your Credit:
One of the most effective ways to prevent unauthorized accounts from being opened in your name is to freeze your credit. This action restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for identity thieves to apply for new credit using your information.
We did it—takes just a few minutes, and it’s free. It’s not a bad idea to do it as a matter of course, then unfreeze it when you apply for a new credit card, mortgage, or car loan.
3. Place Fraud Alerts:
Contact major credit bureaus such as Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to place fraud alerts on your credit files. This extra layer of security notifies creditors to take additional steps to verify your identity before opening new accounts.
4. Constantly Monitor Your Accounts:
Regularly review your bank statements, credit card transactions, and credit reports for any signs of unauthorized activity. Report any suspicious charges or unfamiliar accounts immediately to your financial institution.
I like Credit Karma, myself. Great app and an easy way to monitor your credit score and more, easily.
5. Use Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts by requiring multiple forms of verification before granting access. Typically, this involves something you know (like a password), something you have (such as a smartphone or security token), and something you are (biometric data like fingerprints).
By implementing MFA, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access, even if your password is compromised. It acts as a robust barrier against potential hackers, making it considerably more challenging for them to breach your accounts and access your sensitive information.
6. Stay Informed and Vigilant:
Remain vigilant against phishing scams and suspicious emails that may attempt to exploit the data breach. Be cautious about sharing personal information online and consider using strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
While the aftermath of a data breach can be unsettling, taking swift action can significantly mitigate potential harm. By staying informed and proactive, you empower yourself to safeguard your identity and financial well-being in an increasingly interconnected world.