PREPARE FOR BREACH – 12 Essential Steps to Protect Yourself After the National Public Data Breach
The recent National Public Data (NPD) breach has put millions of Americans at risk, with sensitive information such as Social Security numbers now potentially accessible to cybercriminals.
At R23 Law, our Consumer Data Breach Lawyers know how critical it is to act quickly to protect your financial health and peace of mind.
Below, we outline 12 essential steps to shield yourself from identity theft and minimize the breach’s impact on your life.
12 Essential Steps to Protect Yourself After the National Public Data Breach:
1. Request Your Credit Reports Immediately
Start by requesting credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion through AnnualCreditReport.com. With weekly free access, you can keep close track of your credit standing, helping you detect unauthorized activity before it escalates.
Click here for our comprehensive guide on how to correctly pull your credit reports from ACR.
2. Thoroughly Review Your Credit Reports for Any Irregularities
Once you have your reports, examine them closely for new accounts, strange balances, or any changes to your personal information, like your address or name. Quick identification of suspicious items helps contain damage and safeguards your financial future.
3. Consider a Credit Freeze or Credit Lock
To prevent unauthorized credit access, you may consider a credit freeze or lock. A freeze, requiring a PIN to lift, is free, while a lock is typically paid but can be unlocked easily via an app. Both add a layer of security, restricting criminals from opening new accounts in your name.
4. Regularly Monitor All Financial Account Statements
Review your bank, credit card, and financial account statements line by line to catch any unauthorized activity. Report suspicious charges immediately—even minor, unfamiliar transactions can signal fraud.
5. Report Fraudulent Activity to Law Enforcement
If you find fraudulent activity, file a police report with your local authorities. Additionally, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov. These reports document the incident and are essential when disputing charges or seeking restitution.
6. Enlist Legal Help
The aftermath of identity theft can be complex and daunting. An experienced consumer protection attorney, like those at R23 Law, can advocate for your rights, help you navigate dispute processes, and, if necessary, pursue legal action on your behalf.
7. Consider Identity Theft Protection Services
Identity theft protection services can offer valuable monitoring and alerts. Many services also provide dark web scans, fraud resolution, and insurance coverage. Some companies responsible for data breaches may even offer a year of free credit monitoring—check with NPD for updates on coverage.
8. Be Cautious About Sharing Personal Information
Protect your information by using strong, unique passwords for each account, enabling two-factor authentication, and being cautious with emails or messages that may be phishing attempts. Limiting your digital footprint adds an extra layer of security.
9. Form New Credit and Financial Monitoring Habits
Monitoring your credit and financial accounts regularly is key. Credit monitoring services can alert you to any significant changes, helping you respond quickly to unauthorized activity.
10. Actively Rebuild Your Credit if Damaged by Identity Theft
If your credit has been impacted, start by disputing fraudulent accounts with the credit bureaus. Focus on paying down existing debts and making timely payments to improve your score over time. A secured credit card can also help rebuild credit gradually if needed.
Many identity theft protection services include features such as:
Credit monitoring. Alerts you to changes in your credit report
Identity monitoring. Scans the dark web and other sources for your personal information
Fraud resolution. Assists in recovering from identity theft
Insurance coverage. Offers financial protection against losses due to identity thef.
Note, be cautious on who you turn to for help. The services listed above come at a cost. In some circumstances, the company liable for the breach must pay for your credit monitoring for one year. Check the National Public Data website periodically for any news in this regard.
Also, some credit repair agencies conduct themselves outside the bounds of the law like the Credit Repair Agencies Act, and can cause more harm than help. Remember, you should never pay up front for credit repair services - it is always a good idea to talk to an attorney first.
11. Update Your Digital Security Across Devices
Protect all your devices by updating passwords, installing security software, and enabling two-factor authentication for sensitive accounts. This minimizes access points for cybercriminals.
12. Stay Informed on Data Breach Trends and Prevention Tips
Staying updated on data breach trends helps you adapt to emerging threats. Sign up for alerts from reputable sources, like the FTC, to stay informed and prepared.
GOING FORWARD – Stay Proactive and Seek Legal Support
While these steps can help protect your identity, the impact of a data breach can still be overwhelming. If you suspect you’re a victim of identity theft, don’t wait—taking quick action can minimize the damage. Whether you need help disputing fraudulent charges, restoring your credit, or pursuing legal action, R23 Law’s Consumer Data Breach Lawyers are here to assist.
Contact R23 Law’s Consumer Data Breach Lawyers Today
Click Here for Free Attorney Consultation
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At R23 Law, we are dedicated to helping consumers impacted by data breaches reclaim control over their financial security.
Our team of California Consumer Data Breach Lawyers provides expert guidance and strong advocacy in the fight against identity theft—CONTACT US TODAY for a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights.
If you’re affected by the NPD breach, reach out to discuss your options and secure your financial future.
