In a recent data breach, background check company National Public Data, owned by Jerico Pictures Inc., reported that over 2.7 billion personal records may have been exposed. The breach included sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, names, email addresses, phone numbers, and mailing addresses. A third-party bad actor gained unauthorized access to the data in December, with potential leaks occurring in April and over the summer. While National Public Data claims that the breached data may not be entirely accurate, cybersecurity experts warn that the information could still be exploited for fraudulent activities.
Individuals who are concerned about their data being compromised can take proactive steps to safeguard their personal information. It is essential to be cautious when sharing sensitive details online and to monitor for any suspicious activities that may indicate identity theft. Various websites have been set up to check if your data was affected by the breach, allowing users to search by name, zip code, Social Security number, or phone number. While most people are finding that the leaked information is inaccurate, it is crucial to remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to protect yourself.
One of the most effective ways to safeguard your information is by freezing your credit with the three major credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This will prevent unauthorized access to your credit reports and deter fraudsters from opening accounts in your name. It is important to verify that you are on the legitimate websites of the credit bureaus when submitting a credit freeze request, as phishing scams can trick you into disclosing personal information.
In addition to freezing your credit, consider changing all your passwords, especially if you use the same password across multiple websites. Enable multi-factor authentication for added security and avoid sharing personal information over public internet connections. Moreover, you can opt-out of data collection by companies like National Public Data or invest in identity theft monitoring tools and dark web monitoring services. These services will alert you if any suspicious activities related to your personal information are detected.
While legal actions may be pursued against companies responsible for data breaches, it is often challenging to prove damages and secure meaningful compensation for affected individuals. Pursuing a lawsuit against a data breach may result in nominal payouts, as seen in the aftermath of the 2017 Equifax breach. It is vital to understand the limitations of legal recourse and focus on preventive measures to mitigate the risks of future data breaches.
The National Public Data breach underscores the importance of safeguarding personal information in an increasingly digital world. By taking proactive steps to protect your data and staying informed about cybersecurity best practices, you can reduce the likelihood of falling victim to identity theft and fraud. Stay vigilant, secure your online accounts, and prioritize your privacy in today’s interconnected landscape.
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