The Health of Data:
Protecting Your Identity from Digital Threats

In the wake of a recent lawsuit claiming that hackers may have stolen Social Security numbers for every American, the nation faces one of the most severe cybersecurity breaches in history. The implications of such a breach could be devastating, as Social Security numbers (SSNs) are the cornerstone of identity verification for financial institutions, government agencies, and healthcare providers.

The Nature of the Breach

While the lawsuit is still under investigation, early reports suggest that the breach may have resulted from government and corporate data systems vulnerabilities. The theft of SSNs on such a scale represents a national crisis that impacts every American. This stolen data can be used for identity theft, fraudulent financial activities, tax fraud, and various other illegal schemes that could haunt victims for years.

The danger of SSNs being stolen is that they cannot be easily changed, unlike passwords. Once your SSN is compromised, it remains at risk indefinitely. For this reason, it’s crucial to take protective steps immediately, even if you aren’t sure your data was involved.

Immediate Protection Steps

Whether or not your SSN was part of the breach, this is a wake-up call for everyone to take proactive measures to secure their personal data. Here are essential steps you can take today to protect yourself from the potential fallout of this breach.

1. Credit Freeze: A Strong Defense Against Identity Theft
A credit freeze, also known as a security freeze, is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself after a data breach. A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. We are less likely to approve new credit with more access to your credit report, preventing fraudulent activity from being successful.

To place a credit freeze, you must contact each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Fortunately, freezing your credit is free, and you can temporarily lift the freeze whenever you need to apply for credit.

Steps to Freeze Your Credit:

• Contact each of the three major credit bureaus online or by phone.
• Provide proof of identity, such as your SSN and driver’s license.
• Set up a PIN or password to manage your freeze.
• Confirm your credit is frozen by checking with each bureau.

By freezing your credit, you’re adding a layer of protection that can make it harder for criminals to exploit your stolen SSN.

2. Set Up Fraud Alerts
Consider setting up a fraud alert if a credit freeze seems too restrictive for your current needs. A fraud alert notifies creditors to take additional steps to verify your identity before approving new credit. Fraud alerts are free and last for one year, and you can renew them as needed.

With a fraud alert, you’ll be informed of any attempts to open new accounts in your name, allowing you to take immediate action if fraudulent activity occurs.

3. Monitor Your Financial Statements and Credit Reports
Closely monitoring your financial statements and credit reports is crucial in the aftermath of a data breach. Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unfamiliar charges. Even minor charges could indicate fraudulent activity, as cybercriminals often test accounts with minor transactions before committing enormous fraud.

Additionally, take advantage of your right to a free annual credit report from each central credit bureau. By reviewing your credit report, you can spot any suspicious activity, such as new accounts opened in your name or unfamiliar credit inquiries.

How to Access Your Credit Reports:
Visit AnnualCreditReport.com to request your free credit reports.
Check for any signs of identity theft, including incorrect personal information or unfamiliar accounts.

If you find discrepancies, immediately report them to the credit bureau and the account issuer.

4. Use a Password Manager
Passwords are often your first defense in securing your online accounts, and using weak or reused passwords can leave you vulnerable to hackers. A password manager can help you create and store unique passwords for each account.

Password managers generate complex passwords that are difficult for hackers to crack and allow you to store them securely in an encrypted vault. Some popular password managers offer features like two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.

Popular Password Managers:
• LastPass
• Dashlane
• 1Password
• Bitwarden

Using a password manager can avoid the common pitfalls of using weak or repeated passwords, making it harder for cybercriminals to access your accounts even if they have your SSN.

5. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring your password and a second form of verification, such as a text message, app-based code, or biometric data like a fingerprint. Many online services, including email providers, banks, and social media platforms, offer 2FA as an option, and enabling it can significantly reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access to your accounts.

6. Be Wary of Phishing Scams
In the aftermath of a significant data breach, cybercriminals often ramp up phishing attacks, hoping to exploit individuals’ fears by tricking them into divulging sensitive information. Be cautious of any unsolicited emails, phone calls, or texts claiming to be from your bank, the government, or other institutions.

Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown senders. When in doubt, contact the organization using official communication channels to verify the message’s legitimacy.

7. File Your Taxes Early
Tax-related identity theft is a common consequence of SSN breaches. Filing your taxes early reduces the risk that a scammer will file a fraudulent tax return in your name to claim your refund. The IRS also offers an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to protect you further when filing your taxes.

Conclusion: Stay Vigilant and Proactive

While the full impact of the breach is still being assessed, it’s clear that protecting your personal information is more critical than ever. By taking steps like freezing your credit, using a password manager, enabling two-factor authentication, and monitoring your accounts, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft.

Cybersecurity threats constantly evolve; staying vigilant is critical to protecting your data. By implementing these safeguards now, you’ll be in a much stronger position to protect yourself against future breaches.

To take your password security to the next level, don’t miss out on The Ultimate Guide to Password Security—my comprehensive eBook designed to help you safeguard your digital life. In today’s world, a strong password is your first line of defense against cybercriminals.

This guide provides:
• Step-by-step strategies for creating uncrackable passwords.
• Managing them efficiently.
• Staying ahead of the latest hacking techniques.

With cyber threats constantly evolving, this eBook is a must-have tool to protect sensitive information. Get your copy today and secure your online accounts with confidence!

Order your eBook today and protect your family: https://payhip.com/b/UeP3f

This article originally appeared in the Autumn 2024 issue of CHOICES Magazine