BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Millions of Americans are on high alert after a massive data breach exposed Social Security numbers and left personal information vulnerable to hackers. The data breach, one of the largest in recent years, has raised serious concerns about identity theft.
Cybersecurity experts are urging people to take immediate action to protect their financial and personal information. One key recommendation is to closely monitor credit reports and bank accounts for any unusual activity. Unrecognized charges or accounts could be a sign that your identity has been stolen.
“Freeze your credit so that you can’t release it and do that until you actually try to open a new account or take out a loan,” says Ragib Hasan, a cybersecurity expert at UAB. “Otherwise, no one can open an account in your name.”
A credit freeze is an effective way to prevent unauthorized access to your financial information. It prevents potential creditors from accessing your credit report, making it much harder for thieves to open new accounts in your name. While you can lift your credit freeze if you need to, the freeze will remain in place until you lift it.
In addition to locking down your credit information, experts recommend using two-factor authentication on important accounts and regularly updating passwords. Identity theft protection services can also provide an additional layer of security.
Consumers affected by the breach are encouraged to visit the Federal Trade Commission website for more information on protecting themselves from identity theft.
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