Millions of Americans are facing a significant threat to their personal data as a result of a massive cyberattack targeting the widely used file-transfer program known as MOVEit. The impact so far is vast, even compromising residents of Louisiana and Oregon who possess driver’s licenses or state identification cards, and there are concerns among officials that the number of affected individuals could increase sizably.
Moreover, this breach has far-reaching consequences, impacting numerous firms and organizations, including multinational corporations, federal and state agencies, and universities.
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How did this data breach happen?
Whoever hacked this information was able to do so by exploiting a flaw in a commonly used data file-transfer software called MOVEit, which was made by the Massachusetts-based Progress Software Corp. The U.S. government and many companies use MOVEit to send large files.
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What if my information was compromised?
If you are a resident of either Louisiana or Oregon or anyone else concerned about protecting themselves from identity fraud, here are some steps you can take:
Steps to take to protect yourself against identity fraud
1) Monitor your accounts
3) Check your credit reports
Obtain a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies mentioned earlier. Review the reports carefully for any suspicious or unauthorized activity. If you find any inaccuracies or signs of fraud, report them to the credit reporting agency immediately.
4) Freeze your credit
Be vigilant about emails, phone calls or messages from unknown sources asking for personal information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing sensitive details unless you can verify the legitimacy of the request.
6) Enable two-factor authentication
Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password.
By requesting an “Identity Protection Pin” from the Internal Revenue Service, individuals can effectively deter any attempts of unauthorized tax filing using their personal information.
9) Strengthen your passwords
Ensure that you have strong, unique passwords for your online accounts. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
One of the best parts of using some services is that they might include identity theft insurance of up to $1 million to cover losses and legal fees and a white glove fraud resolution team where a U.S.-based case manager helps you recover any losses.
See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft by visiting CyberGuy.com/IdentityTheft
11) Keep software up to date
If your personal data is on the web, see my tips and best picks for removing yourself from the internet by going to CyberGuy.com/Delete
Kurt’s key takeaways
Regrettably, occurrences like this latest massive cyberattack have become commonplace, highlighting the urgent need for preventative measures by all of us. It is crucial to be proactive in safeguarding your personal information. I recommend you follow my precautions above to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.
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What more do you think could be done about data breaches and protecting people’s information? Let us know by writing us at CyberGuy.com/Contact