If you are similar to me, it is likely that your sensitive data has been compromised in a data breach on multiple occasions. An exclusive survey conducted by CNET revealed that 47% of US adults are aware that their personal data has been leaked in a cyberattack, with Gen X and Baby Boomers reporting higher instances of their sensitive information being exposed. Half of millennials surveyed also admitted to being impacted by a data breach, while one in four Gen Z respondents confirmed that their data had been leaked.
Data breaches occur frequently for various reasons, including phishing attacks by malicious individuals, human error, and even employees seeking to profit from company data. While data breaches do not directly lead to identity theft or fraud, they do increase the risk of falling victim to phishing attempts on personal devices. Therefore, it is our responsibility to ensure the safety of our data and identity.
After learning of their involvement in a data breach, most individuals took steps to protect their personal information. 84% of respondents are implementing some form of security measure this holiday season. However, 71% of US adults have engaged in risky actions, according to security experts, when safeguarding their personal data in the past year. Shockingly, 41% of US adults admitted to using the same password across multiple accounts in the last 12 months, and one in five adults have disabled two-factor authentication.
It is crucial to take action after experiencing a data breach. The majority of adults, 68%, changed their password following a cyberattack, while 41% enrolled in two-factor authentication for multiple online accounts. Other common responses included placing a fraud alert on credit reports (35%) and signing up for identity theft protection (33%).
When a company suffers a data leak, affected customers are typically sent notices containing free activation codes for identity theft protection. While this coverage usually lasts one to two years, individuals can continue to protect their identity by signing up for identity theft protection independently once the offer expires. One of the recommended ways to safeguard personal data after a breach is to freeze credit, a step that only 27% of US adults took.
While data breaches are beyond an individual’s control, maintaining strong password hygiene is crucial. Using the same password for multiple accounts is a risky practice that can leave one vulnerable to credential stuffing by cybercriminals. It is advisable to use unique passwords for each online account, and a password manager can assist with this. Additionally, ensuring the use of two-factor authentication is important for added security.
During the holiday season, shoppers are taking extra precautions to protect themselves from scams. Many are opting to shop on reputable websites or directly from mobile apps to avoid falling victim to fake websites. Strengthening password hygiene, using digital wallets, and checking for HTTPS encryption are other measures being taken by holiday shoppers.
Non-delivery package scams are a top concern for Americans, with one in four individuals fearing falling victim to such schemes. It is important to verify the legitimacy of messages received regarding package deliveries and avoid clicking on any suspicious links. Other common scams that people are wary of include customer support scams, charity scams, gift card draining scams, and romance scams.
As tax season approaches, it is essential to file taxes early to prevent tax return fraud and be cautious of scammers claiming you owe money to the IRS. If receiving unsolicited calls or messages, it is advisable to contact the company or agency directly using the official number to confirm the communication’s validity. Avoid sharing personal information with unknown individuals and be wary of requests that create a sense of urgency. Taking the time to verify the legitimacy of requests can help prevent falling victim to scams.