Ordering a credit report helps identify any suspicious activity that may have occurred since the breach, ensuring your credit hasn't been impacted without your knowledge.
Credit monitoring services alert you to suspicious activities, such as new lines of credit opened in your name, providing an early warning system against identity theft.
A fraud alert prompts creditors to verify your identity before extending credit, adding an extra layer of security to prevent unauthorized credit applications.
A security freeze locks down your ability to take out new credit, preventing anyone from opening a line of credit in your name without your explicit permission.
The FTC provides guides and resources for both consumers and businesses on how to protect themselves and respond to data breaches, acting as a central resource for information and complaint handling.
Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of verification, making it more difficult for unauthorized users to access your accounts even if they have your password.
Email accounts often contain sensitive personal information and serve as the gateway to other accounts, making them a prime target for hackers.
Centralized password managers store all your passwords in one place, which could be a high-value target for hackers if the manager's security is compromised.
Changing passwords for accounts with sensitive information reduces the risk of unauthorized access if those accounts were compromised in the breach.
Services like 'Delete Me' help remove your personal information from public databases, making it harder for people to find and misuse your data.
The dreaded data breach notification... It tells you your personal data's been compromised and suggests steps you can take to minimize the potential harm. On today's episode, Kenny Malone pulls out a data breach letter he received and goes over what it recommends with Amanda Aronczyk. Amanda recently did a show) about the legal and illegal markets for data and tells us how useful these steps actually are. It's news you can use to protect yourself, whether or not you've been part of a data breach.*This normally would be a bonus episode just for Planet Money+ listeners. With this being the season of giving though, we're sharing this one with everyone! To hear more bonus content like this, regular episodes sponsor-free, and support the work of NPR, sign up for Planet Money+ at plus.npr.org). *Related links:Data Breach Response: A Guide for Business) (FTC)Have you been affected by a data breach?) (FTC)Your Technology Is Tracking You. Take These Steps For Better Online Privacy) (Life Kit)What happens after you get scammed? Can you get your money back?) (Planet Money)Firewalls Don't Stop Dragons) (cybersecurity and privacy podcast) Experian) (credit bureau)TransUnion) (credit bureau) Equifax) (credit bureau) *Always free at these links: Apple Podcasts), Spotify), the NPR app) or anywhere you get podcasts.Find more Planet Money: Facebook) / Instagram) / TikTok) / Our weekly Newsletter).*Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)