What should I do if I’ve been a victim of a Data Leak?

60-Second Summary

If you’ve been victim of a data leak there are a few steps you can take to protect your devices and prevent further damage:

• Confirm the breach: Use tools like Have I Been Pwned to check if your data is compromised. Be cautious of phishing emails.
• Act quickly: Change affected passwords, enable 2FA, and secure your email account.
• Monitor activity: Review account logs, financial transactions, and email settings for unauthorized actions.
• Prevent future risks: Regularly update passwords, close unused accounts, and stay informed about cybersecurity threats.

AMCO’S Top Security Tips

• Unique passwords: Use strong, unique passwords stored in a password manager.
• Enable 2FA: Protect critical accounts with two-factor authentication.
• Freeze credit: If financial data is leaked, freeze your credit and set fraud alerts.
• Stay vigilant: Watch for phishing scams, use a VPN, and monitor for future breaches.

Learn more & get details

To learn more about this subject, read our team’s full analysis below . . .

How can my data be breached?

Data breaches may occur through various methods, including:

• Hacking or exploiting vulnerabilities: Attackers exploit weaknesses in websites or apps to steal sensitive user data.
• Phishing attacks: Cybercriminals trick users into providing credentials through fake emails or websites.
• Insider threats: Employees with access to data may misuse it or sell it.
• Inadequate security measures: Companies failing to secure their databases can expose user information.
• Supply chain attacks: Breaches occur when third-party services used by a company are compromised.

What to do if your data has been leaked

1. Confirm that your data has been leaked

• Use data breach tools: Platforms like Have I Been Pwned or Mozilla Monitor help identify if your email or login details are part of a breach.
• Check official notifications: Companies often inform users about breaches via email. However, beware of phishing attempts. Always verify by visiting the company’s official site or contacting their support.

2. Change your passwords immediately

• Create strong passwords: Use a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessed information.
• Avoid reusing passwords: Use unique passwords for every account to prevent chain compromises.
• Use a password manager: Tools like LastPass or 1Password securely generate and store strong passwords.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• Use authentication apps: Use apps like Google Authenticator or Authy or physical security keys.
• Enable 2FA: Enable 2FA for sensitive accounts such as email, banking, and social media.

4. Monitor for unusual activity

• Review login logs: Check for unauthorised access attempts.
• Track financial transactions: Regularly review bank and credit card statements for irregularities. Report any fraudulent activity immediately.
• Check email settings: Look for unauthorised changes, such as email forwarding rules.
• Track authorised devices: Remove access for any untrusted third-party apps or services.

5. Be Alert for phishing Scams

• Scrutinise emails: Be cautious of messages requesting sensitive information or urging urgent action.
• Verify URLs: Hover over links before clicking to ensure they lead to legitimate sites.
• Avoid downloading unknown attachments: They may contain malware.

6. Freeze your credit or monitor your identity

• Freeze your credit: Contact credit bureaus like Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion to block unauthorised account creation.
• Set fraud alerts: Alert creditors to verify your identity before issuing credit.
• Use identity monitoring services: Tools like LifeLock or IdentityForce help monitor for signs of identity theft.

8. Delete or secure unused accounts

• Delete accounts you no longer use: Close dormant accounts permanently.
• Secure active accounts: Update passwords and enable 2FA for those you retain.

9. Educate yourself on cybersecurity

• Use a VPN: Use a VPN for secure internet access on public Wi-Fi.
• Back up your data: Regularly back up your data to guard against ransomware or accidental loss.
• Be careful with downloads: Only download apps and extensions from trusted sources.

10. Stay informed about future breaches

• Set alerts: Use breach-monitoring services like Have I Been Pwned.
• Separate accounts: Use unique email addresses for each service to track breaches more effectively.

AMCO’s Recommendations

To safeguard your personal information after a data breach, AMCO recommends taking the following steps:

• Check for breaches: Confirm if your information has been leaked by using breach-checking tools and looking for official notifications.
• Change your passwords: Immediately reset passwords for compromised accounts and ensure each one is strong and unique.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security by enabling 2FA on all accounts that support it.
• Monitor account activity: Regularly check for unusual activity and unauthorised transactions on your accounts.
• Secure your email: Update your email password, enable 2FA, and remove any untrusted third-party applications from your account.
• Beware of phishing scams: Stay vigilant for suspicious emails or messages that attempt to steal your information.
• Protect your credit: Freeze your credit or set fraud alerts to prevent unauthorised use of your financial information.
• Delete or secure unused accounts: Remove any inactive accounts and update security measures on those you still use.
• Educate yourself on cybersecurity: Learn about online security practices and use tools like VPNs and reputable applications to protect your data.
• Stay informed about future breaches: Regularly monitor your accounts for new breaches and take proactive steps to minimise risks.