Data Breach Letters- What do I do?
In today's digital era, data breaches are increasingly common, affecting millions and exposing their personal information. Imagine receiving a letter from a business informing you that your data has been compromised. This news can be unsettling, but it's essential to stay calm and take immediate action. Start by carefully reading the letter to understand what information has been compromised and follow any instructions provided.
Next, closely monitor your bank accounts and credit cards for any unauthorized transactions, and request a free copy of your credit report from each of the major credit bureaus to check for any unusual activity. Placing a fraud alert or credit freeze can add an extra layer of protection, making it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. Additionally, change the passwords and security questions for your online accounts, and enable two-factor authentication where available to enhance security. Be vigilant against phishing scams, which may attempt to exploit the breach, and report any suspicious activity immediately.
If you suspect your identity has been stolen, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov or call their identity theft hotline for assistance. You can also reach out to the Arkansas Cyber Defense Center (ACDC) for further guidance and resources.
To learn more about cybersecurity and how to protect your personal information, contact acdc@forge.institute or call 501-239-9599. Visit our website at forge.institute/acdc to sign up for our newsletter and explore our free services.
By taking these proactive steps and staying informed, you can better protect yourself from potential identity theft and minimize the damage caused by the data breach. Together, we can safeguard your information and enhance your cyber resilience.
Resources for Assistance:
Have I Been Pwned: https://haveibeenpwned.com/
FTC Identity Theft Website: https://www.identitytheft.gov/
