How to Check if Your Social Security Number Was Exposed in the National Public Data Breach
The recent National Public Data breach has raised serious concerns about personal information security. With millions of records exposed, including Social Security Numbers (SSNs), it’s crucial to understand how you can protect yourself and verify if your data was compromised.
What Happened?
A significant breach involving public data has put personal information at risk. Hackers targeted databases containing sensitive details, including Social Security Numbers. If your data was involved, it could be used for identity theft or fraudulent activities.
Steps to Check if Your SSN Was Compromised
To check if your SSN was exposed, follow these steps:
Visit Trusted Sources: Go to official websites like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to verify breach notifications.
Utilize Monitoring Services: Many credit monitoring services, including those provided by your bank or third-party providers, offer alerts for any suspicious activity involving your SSN. You can also sign up for services like Experian’s Free Dark Web Scan or IdentityForce.
Check Your Credit Report: Review your credit report regularly for unauthorized accounts or changes. You’re entitled to a free report once a year from each of the major bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Place a Fraud Alert or Freeze on Your Credit: If you’re concerned about your SSN, placing a fraud alert or a credit freeze can help prevent new accounts from being opened in your name without your knowledge. You can freeze your credit with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
What To Do If Your SSN Was Compromised
If you discover that your SSN was exposed, take these immediate steps:
- Report Identity Theft: Use the FTC’s IdentityTheft.gov to report any theft and create a recovery plan.
- Monitor Accounts Closely: Watch your bank, credit card, and other financial accounts for any unusual activity.
- Consider Identity Theft Protection: Identity theft protection services like LifeLock or IdentityGuard can monitor your SSN and alert you of potential misuse.
Stay Vigilant
As breaches continue to happen, it’s important to stay alert. Regularly monitor your personal information, be cautious with sharing sensitive details, and use strong passwords and two-factor authentication to help secure your accounts.
At Tally Ho Tech, we prioritize cybersecurity and the protection of your data. Contact us to learn more about how we can help safeguard your organization from threats like these.