I Was Affected by the National Public Data (NPD) Hack — Here’s What You Should Do

Recently, I found out that my personal information has been compromised in the National Public Data (NPD) hack, where the company accidentally published its own passwords. I’m sharing my story to help others who might be affected and to offer steps to protect yourself.

The idea that a company responsible for safeguarding sensitive information could make such an error is alarming. However, instead of panicking, I immediately took action to minimize potential damage. If you’re worried about your data, here’s what I recommend:

Change Your Passwords Immediately

The first step I took was to change my passwords for all accounts that might be connected to NPD. Use strong, unique passwords for each account. Consider using a password manager to help you keep track of them.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Adding an extra layer of security by enabling 2FA on all your important accounts is crucial. Even if someone gets your password, they would need a secondary code, usually sent to your phone or email, to gain access.

Monitor Your Financial Accounts

I immediately started monitoring my bank and credit card statements for unusual activity. It’s essential to keep an eye out for unauthorized transactions, especially following a data breach.

Freeze Your Credit and Place a Fraud Alert

As an extra precaution, I froze my credit with all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This prevents anyone from opening new accounts in my name without my authorization. You can also place a fraud alert on your credit, which makes it harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name.

Consider Changing Your Social Security Number

In extreme cases of identity theft, such as if your Social Security number (SSN) is compromised, you may be eligible to request a new SSN. I haven’t taken this step yet, but it’s something worth considering if you believe your identity is at high risk.

Use Identity Theft Monitoring

If you haven’t already, consider enrolling in an identity theft monitoring service. Some services notify you if there’s any suspicious activity involving your personal information.

Be Wary of Phishing Attempts

Following a data breach, hackers often target individuals with phishing emails, hoping to trick them into revealing more personal information. Be extra cautious about emails, texts, or phone calls asking for your details. Verify the source before clicking any links.

Stay Informed

Lastly, I recommend staying up to date with news about the NPD hack. Companies often release updates on the scope of the breach and provide resources to affected individuals.

While the NPD breach is unsettling, taking these steps can help protect your identity and personal information from further harm. I’ve found that being proactive is the best approach to dealing with this kind of situation.

Here are more helpful links:

Password Management:

• LastPass — Securely store and generate strong passwords.
• Dashlane — Password manager with dark web monitoring.
• 1Password — Manage and create strong, unique passwords.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

• Google Authenticator — Free app for 2FA codes.
• Authy — Easy-to-use 2FA app for multiple devices.
• Duo Security — 2FA solutions for businesses and individuals.

Monitoring Financial Accounts:

• Mint — Track and manage your financial accounts in one place.
• Credit Karma — Free credit monitoring and alerts.

Credit Freeze and Fraud Alerts:

• Equifax Credit Freeze — Freeze your credit at Equifax.
• Experian Credit Freeze — Freeze your credit at Experian.
• TransUnion Credit Freeze — Freeze your credit at TransUnion.

Identity Theft Monitoring:

• IDShield — Comprehensive identity protection and monitoring.
• LifeLock — Identity theft protection with credit monitoring.
• IdentityForce — Monitoring service to detect identity theft.

Social Security Number Protection:

Social Security Administration — Requesting a New SSN — Steps to take if your Social Security number is compromised.

These links will help you take immediate action to safeguard your personal information and financial data after the NPD breach. Let me know if you’d like more suggestions!

By Christina Grant, Cybersecurity specialist at Computer-Technologies, LLC. You can contact me at: info@insyncnews.com

Reference:

Krebs On Security: https://krebsonsecurity.com/2024/08/national-public-data-published-its-own-passwords/