On the heels of major cyber security headlines in 2017, experts predict that 2018 could bring even more data breaches and security threats.

Indeed, the MIT Technology Review said the Equifax cyberattack – which exposed personal information for 145 million people – was a “stark reminder that hackers are thinking big when it comes to targets. Other companies that hold lots of sensitive information will be in their sights in 2018.”

Chief Security Officer magazine agreed: “Breaches will be bigger, hackers will be smarter, and security teams and budgets won’t seem to keep pace.”

These forecasts can be daunting, but with education and quick action, consumers can minimize their vulnerability.

Types of Data Breaches

The term “data breach” refers to a security violation in which sensitive, protected or confidential data is copied, transmitted, viewed or stolen by an unauthorized person, according to the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse.

Some examples of data breaches include:

• Hacking
• “Skimming” or cloning credit cards
• Disclosure from employees or contractors
• Loss or theft of sensitive documents
• Loss or theft of electronic devices
• Public sharing of sensitive information on a website or through email, fax or mail

How Will I Know if I’m Affected?

Federal law requires banks to inform customers if data has been accessed and is likely to be misused; similar provisions apply for health care providers and recordkeepers.

State laws vary. In California, all businesses and state agencies that have records of personal information must notify residents if their data “was acquired or reasonably believed to have been acquired” by an unauthorized person. The state maintains a list of data security breaches with the California Attorney General.

How to Protect Yourself After a Breach

The breach notice should tell you when the incident occurred and what information was susceptible. Take quick action to address the data in question:

• Passwords. Change your password for that account immediately. Many people use the same passwords on multiple sites; change them everywhere you use them.
• Email addresses. Watch out for messages asking for information or telling you to click on links. Often hackers imitate the company, hoping to get more information from you. If you have a question about a breach notice, call the company directly.
• Credit and debit card numbers. Call your card provider and ask for a new card (with a new number). Change your PIN number. Monitor your statements and transactions; you are not liable for unauthorized purchases if they are promptly reported.
• Social security numbers. Contact one of the three major credit reporting agencies and ask them to place a fraud alert on your account. This will make it harder for a hacker to open accounts under your name. Review your credit report for suspicious activity.

Moreover, remember that companies that store your personally identifiable information have a legal obligation to keep that data secure. Privacy lawsuits allow victims to recover their financial losses, and, in some cases, statutory damages.

If your data has been compromised by a company with unlawful business practices, contact Keller Grover at 866-663-3308 for a free consultation.