Data breaches are becoming increasingly common, affecting millions of consumers each year. Whether the breach involves a major retailer, financial institution or health care provider, the Better Business Bureau urges consumers to act quickly to protect their personal information and minimize potential damage.
If you receive notice that your data has been compromised, it is important to take steps to secure your identity, monitor your accounts and understand your rights.
Confirm the breach: Start by verifying that the breach notification is legitimate. Scammers sometimes send fake alerts to trick people into clicking malicious links or providing sensitive information. Contact the company directly using a verified phone number or website to confirm the breach and learn what data was exposed.
Change your passwords: Immediately change passwords for any affected accounts. If you use the same password across multiple platforms, update those as well. Choose strong, unique passwords and consider using a password manager to keep track of them securely.
Enable multi-factor authentication: Adding an extra layer of security to your accounts can help prevent unauthorized access. Multi-factor authentication typically requires a second form of verification, such as a text message code or authentication app, in addition to your password.
Monitor your accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank statements, credit card activity and online accounts for any suspicious transactions. Set up alerts for unusual activity and report any unauthorized charges to your financial institution immediately.
Check your credit reports: Request a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. Review the reports for unfamiliar accounts or inquiries. If you spot anything suspicious, contact the bureau to dispute the information.
Consider a credit freeze or fraud alert: A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. A fraud alert notifies lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before approving credit. Both options are free and can be set up through the credit bureaus.
Report identity theft: If you believe your identity has been stolen, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. The site provides a personalized recovery plan and helps you file necessary reports and paperwork.
Stay informed: Follow updates from the company involved in the breach and watch for additional guidance. Some organizations may offer free credit monitoring or identity protection services to affected customers. Take advantage of these resources if available.
For more BBB news, scam alerts, and tips, visit BBB.org. To learn more about how to avoid common scams, visit BBB.org/AvoidScams. If you or a loved one has encountered a scam, whether you’ve lost money or not, report it at BBB.org/ScamTracker.
Jan Diaz is the President/CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Northern Indiana, which serves 23 counties.Contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit www.bbb.org.