Receiving a data breach notice is scary! I It can be confused and worried. Don't panic, though. That won't help you. The best thing to do is be proactive and take action. Here are 7 easy steps to minimize your risks.
So, it's not good to get a letter saying your information was compromised, but it doesn't mean the end of your life as you know it. And if followed the 7 steps above— read it, change passwords, utilize two-step authentication, monitor accounts daily work history on file, freeze credit, beware of scams, keep monitoring— you can protect yourself.
Consider it this way, we put locks on our doors after someone broke the window. Acting quickly is a way to protecting you. Keep being thorough, keep being smart, and most importantly, do not let the hackers win.
1. Read the Letter
The first step is to read the letter in its entirety. It will usually tell you what information was breached, when it was breached, and the company's suggested actions. Reading the letter carefully will help you take action correctly.2. Change Your Passwords
If you think your passwords have been compromised, change them immediately. Create strong complex unique passwords for all of your accounts. I recommend using a third-party password manager to help create random passwords and keep them secure.3. Use Two Factor Authentication (2FA)
Use 2FA if it is available. 2FA provides additional protection. Even if someone were to obtain your password, they still would not be able to sign into your account without having access to your phone or an authentication app. This is an easy and effective way to protect yourself from unnecessary risk.4. Monitor Your Accounts
Be on the lookout for any unusual activity or charges on your bank, credit card or online accounts. Early detection makes a huge difference.5. Think about a Credit Freeze or Fraud Alert
If sensitive information (like social security numbers) was released, you can stop someone from opening accounts using your information with a credit freeze or fraud alert.6. Be Aware Of Scams
Scam artists may contact you after breaches through fake emails or calls; don't click a link and don't give any information unless you are confident it's real. If it doesn't feel right, it isn't.7. Update Yourself
Businesses often reach out to you post-breach. Follow their instructions, and review news about the breach. Staying updated will allow you to react quickly if something happens.So, it's not good to get a letter saying your information was compromised, but it doesn't mean the end of your life as you know it. And if followed the 7 steps above— read it, change passwords, utilize two-step authentication, monitor accounts daily work history on file, freeze credit, beware of scams, keep monitoring— you can protect yourself.
Consider it this way, we put locks on our doors after someone broke the window. Acting quickly is a way to protecting you. Keep being thorough, keep being smart, and most importantly, do not let the hackers win.