Discovering that a company with which you’ve shared your personal data has fallen victim to a cyber attack is a sobering experience. Unfortunately, in this era of relentless cyber threats, it’s becoming increasingly common. So, what can you do if your data is caught up in a breach?
Understanding the Risk Level
The steps you need to take after a data breach largely depend on the nature of the breached data and the type of website from which it was stolen. Websites and the data they handle can be categorized into high, moderate, and low risk.
High Risk: High-risk sites include financial institutions, email providers, social media platforms, healthcare providers, and any site controlling internet-connected devices like home cameras or voice-controlled devices. If these sites are breached, your social security number, bank account details, health records, or even control of your home devices could be compromised.
Moderate Risk: These are sites that have more in-depth records about you or your family. Examples include hotel or airline booking platforms that store your travel information and preferences.
Low Risk: These are generally retail sites that mainly hold your name and email address.
Your Data Breach Response Checklist
If you find out your data has been compromised in a breach, follow these steps to minimize potential damage:
- Change Your Passwords: Immediately log in to the breached website and change your password. If possible, enable two-factor authentication for added security.
- Review Your Account Information: Examine your account details to ascertain what data might have been compromised.
- File an ID Theft Affidavit (for high-risk breaches): If a high-risk website is breached, file an ID theft affidavit with the FTC and place a fraud alert on your accounts.
- Alert the Authorities: If your social security number was potentially exposed, inform the IRS and your accountant. For passport data, contact the State Department.
- Monitor Your Credit Report: Regularly review your credit reports for any unauthorized activities or changes.
- Contact Your Bank (for financial data breaches): If a financial account or credit/debit card was compromised, contact your bank immediately, request new card numbers, and monitor your account for any suspicious activity.
- Watch Your Mail: Be vigilant for any new accounts, cards, or suspicious activities opened in your name.
- Take Advantage of Credit Monitoring: If the breached company offers credit monitoring services, consider using them to keep a close eye on your credit activity.
Staying Secure in a Digital World
A data breach can be stressful, but with the right response, you can minimize the damage and regain control over your digital life. Cybersecurity isn’t just about preventing breaches; it’s about having a solid plan in place if one occurs. At BlackCloak, our mission is to guide you in protecting your digital life, no matter the circumstances. Together, we can ensure that your digital life remains secure.
The post Data Breach Response: Protecting Your Digital Life After an Incident appeared first on BlackCloak | Protect Your Digital Life™.
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from BlackCloak | Protect Your Digital Life™ authored by Ingrid Gliottone. Read the original post at: https://blackcloak.io/data-breach-response-protecting-your-digital-life-after-an-incident/