When it happens, you feel powerless. You get an email or letter from a business saying someone breached your personal data. Data breaches are increasingly common today and can have serious consequences for your finances and privacy.
Personal data breaches can occur at banks, online platforms like Facebook, and e-commerce stores. Even government agencies are not immune. This often leaves sensitive details like your address, Social Security number, and credit card information exposed to cybercriminals.
While you can’t control a company’s security measures, you can take critical steps after a breach. Below, we outline the most important actions to protect yourself and minimize financial losses.
Change Your Passwords
The very first step after a personal data breach is to change your passwords. Start with the service that notified you about the breach. Then, update any other accounts where you used the same password.
Reusing passwords makes your accounts vulnerable, as hackers often test stolen credentials on other platforms. To improve your security:
- Use unique passwords for every site.
- Employ a password manager to generate and store strong passwords.
- Make your master password complex and secure.
Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
Multifactor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that even if hackers have your password, they can’t access your account. Enable MFA for the breached service and all other accounts where it’s available.
Common MFA methods include:
- Text message codes
- Authentication apps (like Google Authenticator)
- Security keys
Check Your Bank Accounts
If payment card details were part of the breach, monitor your bank accounts closely for several weeks. Watch for unauthorized charges and report suspicious activity immediately.
Steps to take:
- Notify your bank about the data breach.
- Request a new card if necessary.
- Set up account alerts for unusual activity.
Being proactive can help prevent financial losses and ensure you aren’t held liable for fraudulent transactions.
Freeze Your Credit
Cybercriminals often sell stolen data, enabling others to take out credit in your name. Protect yourself by freezing your credit with the three major credit bureaus:
- Equifax
- Experian
- TransUnion
Each bureau provides simple instructions on their website to freeze your credit and prevent unauthorized access.
Carefully Review the Breach Notification
Understand how the personal data breach impacts you by thoroughly reviewing the notification you received. Look for details such as:
- The type of data exposed (e.g., passwords, financial details)
- Steps the company is taking to mitigate risks (like offering credit monitoring)
- Recommended actions to secure your account
Check the company’s website for updates, as investigations often reveal new details over time.
Get Good Cybersecurity Protections
Protect your devices and network to avoid future breaches. Use tools like:
- Antivirus/anti-malware software
- DNS filtering to block harmful websites
- Email spam filters to reduce phishing risks
Consider using a VPN to secure your internet traffic, especially on public Wi-Fi. VPNs are easy to use and protect both computers and mobile devices.
Be on the Lookout for Phishing Scams
A personal data breach can lead to an increase in phishing attempts. Criminals often use stolen email addresses to craft convincing scams. Protect yourself by:
- Hovering over links before clicking.
- Visiting websites directly instead of using email or SMS links.
- Being cautious with unknown senders or unexpected messages.
Phishing isn’t limited to email—watch for scams on social media and text messages.
Make Sure to Update Software & Systems
Outdated software is a common vulnerability that hackers exploit. Keep your devices secure by:
- Updating your operating system and apps regularly.
- Applying firmware updates to routers, printers, and smart devices.
- Automating updates whenever possible to avoid delays.
Managed Security Services You Can Count On
After a personal data breach, having robust cybersecurity measures is essential to protect your home and workplace. Our managed IT services can safeguard your devices and data from future threats.
Contact us today to learn more about improving your device security and staying one step ahead of cybercriminals.
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