Protect Yourself After a Data Breach: 7 Simple Steps

A massive data breach recently exposed the personal information of millions of Americans, including Social Security numbers, phone numbers, addresses, and birth dates. Hackers targeted National Public Data, a U.S. data broker, leaving countless individuals vulnerable to identity theft.

This breach is particularly concerning for Nigerians residing in the United States, as they too are at risk. With personal data widely accessible, it’s crucial to take immediate action to protect your identity and prevent fraud.

Here are seven steps to safeguard yourself

1. Freeze Your Credit: Start by freezing your credit with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. This prevents anyone from opening new accounts in your name. If you need credit later, you can temporarily lift the freeze.
2. Check Your Credit Reports Regularly: Regularly monitor your credit reports to catch any unusual activity. You’re entitled to one free report each year from the major credit bureaus. Early detection can help prevent further issues.
3. Sign Up for Identity Monitoring: Consider using an identity monitoring service to alert you if your personal information appears on the dark web or is misused. Sometimes, companies affected by breaches offer these services for free.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your online accounts by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA). This step requires a verification code, typically sent to your phone, making it harder for unauthorized access.
5. Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across websites. Ensure each account has a strong, unique password. A password manager can help create and manage these passwords easily.
6. Be Careful of Phishing Scams: Stay vigilant against phishing scams. Scammers often pose as legitimate companies to steal your personal information. If something seems suspicious, don’t click on any links or provide details.
7. Double-Check Any Messages You Get: Don’t rely on contact information from a message that claims to be from your bank or service provider. Visit the official website or call the number on the back of your card to verify the message’s authenticity.

Taking these steps can help protect your personal information and reduce the risk of identity theft following a data breach. Stay alert and proactive in safeguarding your identity.