A significant data breach including 2.9 billion records from the company National Public Data has compromised the personal information of many millions of Americans. National Public Data normally sells data to companies for the purpose of background checks, criminal records and more. But it appears that much, if not all of the data they’ve obtained over the years has been leaked. The breach includes sensitive data such as names, addresses, Social Security numbers and birthdates – information that identity thieves and scammers can use to their benefit.
How to Check If You Were Affected:
To determine if your personal information was part of the breach, here are a few trustworthy websites where you can enter some information to check if your data has been exposed:
These websites will require you to provide a portion of your information, and return any remaining data that matches the search inquiry.
What to Do if Your Information Was Exposed:
If your information was exposed in the breach, take the following steps:
- Freeze Your Credit: Contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a credit freeze on your account. This will prevent unauthorized individuals from opening new accounts in your name.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements, credit card bills, and other financial records for any suspicious activity.
- Report Identity Theft: If you believe your identity has been stolen, file a police report and contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to report the incident.
Staying Informed:
As more details about the data breach emerge, it’s important to stay informed about the situation. Keep an eye on news reports, official government announcements, and updates from the affected companies.
Remember: While this breach is a significant event, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and minimize the potential damage. By following the advice above and staying vigilant, you can help safeguard your personal information.
