After a significant data violation compromised millions of Social Security numbers, Americans are now more vulnerable to identity theft. According to The Los Angeles Times, a steal at National Public Data, a Florida-based business, led to the theft and listing of sensitive data from almost three billion people for purchase online.
The malware group, known as USDoD, claimed responsibility for the breach, stating that it had acquired documents containing complete names, addresses, birth dates, telephone numbers, and Social Security numbers. This information, which is used by corporations and private investigators for background checks, was reportedly stolen in April and is being sold for$ 3.5 million.
Social Security knowledge compromises pose a serious risk of identity fraud. These information can be used by thieves to access bank records in a bribe. In 2024, AuthenticID’s founder and president, Blair Cohen, highlighted the growing threat of identity theft, which is being driven by the development of new AI-powered devices that business and consumer fraudsters use to utilize. Businesses and consumers alike are facing a major challenge in the form of intrusions and company attacks, according to Cohen in a subsequent report.
Americans can get a number of strategic steps to reduce their risk, even though there is no clear way to tell whether your Social Security number was actually stolen. Freezing credit records at key credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and Trans Union—can prevent thieves from taking out loans or signing up for payment cards in your title.
Identity theft security services like Identity Guard and LifeLock provide alerts for possible breaches and are frequently offered for free. Joseph Harisson, CEO of IT Companies Network, emphasized the importance of attention, advising people to watch for unexpected contacts, monitor payment information, consider fraud emails, and release passwords often.
Strengthening account stability by using robust, regularly updated passwords and enabling two-factor verification for banks and private accounts may also help prevent unauthorized access. Constantly checking bank and credit cards accounts can identify suspicious activity right away.
If you suspect that your private data has already been compromised, visiting the Federal Trade Commission’s IdentityTheft. It is suggested to apply for a specific treatment plan through the government website. Also, contacting the Internal Revenue Service about the possibility of fraud can stop criminals from filing tax returns in your title to state your tax refund. Additionally, the Internet Complaint Center allows users to submit problems electronically.
Alex Hamerstone, expert options director for TrustedSec, stressed the need for solid IT systems that do not rely entirely on individual credentials. Multifactor authentication is completely necessary, particularly as ransomware attacks are hitting businesses right and center, according to Hamerstone, according to Newsweek. ” This should always be used”.
