FRESNO, California – Cody Sarhan, Communications Specialist
In a breach that could potentially affect billions of individuals (yes, that’s billion with a “B”), National Public Data (NPD), a company specializing in background checks, has reportedly suffered a catastrophic data breach. This breach allegedly exposed billions of records in April according to a recent lawsuit, a significant portion of which have now been posted on the dark web. The implications are disastrous for those who may now find their personal information — such as Social Security numbers, names, phone numbers, birth dates, and addresses — in the hands of cybercriminals.
Learn More: Find out how Xobee can help keep your data protected
According to a class-action lawsuit filed in Florida, hackers successfully infiltrated NPD’s vast database, gaining access to a staggering 2.9 billion records. These records, which are said to include sensitive data on US, UK, and Canadian citizens, have since been made public on the dark web.
Despite repeated inquiries from the media, NPD has remained largely silent on the matter. At this time the company has only issued a brief statement acknowledging awareness of “certain third-party claims about consumer data” and asserting that they are “investigating these issues.” They have also stated that they have purged the entire database and deleted all “non-public personal information.” However, for those whose data has already been exposed, this comes as little comfort.
What to Do If You’re Affected
For individuals who suspect their data may have been part of the breach, the first step is to verify whether their information has indeed been compromised. Cybersecurity platform Pentester has developed a free tool that allows users to search the leaked database.
► By going to this site, and entering basic information like name, state, and birth year, users can see if their personal data has been exposed.
If a match is found, Pentester provides a list of exposed details If you discover that your data has been compromised, it’s crucial to take immediate action to protect yourself.
One of the most effective measures you can take is to freeze your credit by visiting USA.gov. This simple step prevents new lines of credit from being opened in your name, effectively blocking identity thieves from taking out loans or credit cards using your information. Freezing your credit is free and can be done through the three major credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Another option is to place a fraud alert on your credit report. While not as comprehensive as a credit freeze, a fraud alert notifies creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before extending credit. This service is also free, lasts for one year, and can be renewed.
Long-Term Implications: The Ongoing Risk of Identity Theft
Even if you take all the recommended precautions, the reality is that your personal information might still be at risk. Identity theft can occur long after a data breach has been disclosed. Therefore, it’s essential to remain vigilant. Monitor your credit reports and financial statements regularly for any signs of unauthorized activity. If you suspect that your Social Security number is being misused, report it immediately to IdentityTheft.gov, where you can begin the process of securing your identity and repairing any damage.
Xobee Networks is Here to Help
This is just one of many major breaches to occur this year, and with the advent of AI and new tools, these occurrences are only getting more frequent. You cannot afford to take cybersecurity lightly. At Xobee Networks, we understand the critical importance of protecting your data and your business. Our comprehensive IT consulting services, cloud hosting solutions, and off-site storage ensures that your business is prepared for any eventuality. In the event of a data breach, our data restoration services and disaster recovery solutions can help you get back on your feet quickly and efficiently.
Additionally, our cybersecurity services, including virus protection and spam filtering, are designed to keep your business safe from the latest threats. Don’t wait for a crisis to strike — partner with Xobee Networks today to safeguard your business technology and ensure your peace of mind.
