How to Protect Yourself From a Data Breach

With data breaches occurring more and more each day, your sensitive personal information might be at risk. Hackers are able to use this information to steal funds or commit identity fraud, so it’s important to keep yourself well-protected. Listed below are some key ways to keep your personal data safe and secure in case of a security breach.

Strengthen Your Passwords

Improving your password strength by making them more complex is a great way to enhance your account’s security. Additionally, you should make sure to use different passwords for each of your online accounts and to immediately change the passwords for any website that’s been recently hacked.

However, if you want to strengthen your passwords even more, it’s also a good idea to download or purchase a password manager. A password manager allows users to store, generate, and manage their passwords from multiple devices. Here, you can securely and easily store each of your passwords, along with generating unique new ones for each of your online accounts. Some password managers even audit the strength of your passwords and scan the dark web to see if any of your information has been leaked in a breach.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication

In case any of your information is leaked during a data breach, it’s very important to enable multi-factor authentication on any online platforms that offer it. This security measure allows users to access their accounts only after providing confirmation from another account or device. With multi-factor authentication, a confirmation code is usually sent to a user’s phone via text or email after entering their login credentials. This way, a hacker wouldn’t be able to access your account even if they acquired your password from a data breach.

Monitor for Identity Theft

Since 65% of data breaches result in identity theft worldwide, it’s crucial to closely monitor your personal accounts for this potential outcome. A hacker who steals your identity can use your personal information to apply for credit, file taxes, or receive medical services fraudulently under your name. This can damage your credit score and cost you a significant amount of time and money as a result. If you’ve fallen victim to identity theft, be sure to contact each of your credit card companies to freeze your accounts and set up fraud alerts. From here, you should contact your local Social Security office in Kansas City, MO to hear next steps.      

Contact Our Data Breach Lawyers at McShane & Brady Today

In order to schedule a free consultation with our data breach lawyers in Kansas City, MO, be sure to contact McShane & Brady or fill out the online questionnaire on our website today. Our team should be able to contact you back within one business day.

McShane & Brady is a Kansas City law firm that represents those who have been victims of data breaches and HIPAA violations. Our firm has represented millions who have had their personal and private information made public from breaches of security. If you have been put at risk due to a data breach, give our office a call at 816-888-8010.