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Preparedness News
5 Essential Steps to Surviving a Data Breach
In a world where our personal data is increasingly vulnerable, a recent massive data breach serves as a stark reminder of how quickly our private information can fall into the wrong hands. National Public Data, a Florida-based company known for conducting background checks, recently acknowledged a breach that potentially exposed the Social Security numbers, addresses, and other sensitive details of nearly every American.
The breach, which took place in late 2023 and was not discovered in April 2024, was carried out by a hacking group known as USDoD. They claimed to have stolen the personal records of 2.9 billion people from National Public Data, offering this vast trove of information for sale on the dark web. Millions of people are dealing with unauthorized transactions, bank fraud, and lost assets because of this breach. Disturbingly, none of this data was encrypted, making it a goldmine for identity thieves and cybercriminals.
National Public Data’s response to the breach has been criticized for its delay and lack of transparency. While they have posted a notice on their website and taken steps to purge their database, the damage has already been done. Hackers are now in possession of not just Social Security numbers, but also email addresses, full names, phone numbers, and even alternate identities—a dangerous toolkit for fraudsters.
For those affected, the risks extend far beyond identity theft. With access to email addresses, cybercriminals can launch targeted phishing attacks, attempting to trick victims into revealing even more sensitive information or installing malware. The consequences of this breach could be felt for years, as individuals grapple with the fallout from compromised personal data.
Impact on Supply Chains and Timely Purchase of Necessities
Disruption of Supplier Networks: Data breaches can lead to disruptions in supplier networks due to compromised communication channels, payment systems, or logistics operations. This can result in delays in the delivery of goods and shortages of essential items.
Price Fluctuations: As supply chains are disrupted, prices of goods can fluctuate significantly. This can make it difficult for consumers to purchase necessities at reasonable prices, especially during emergencies.
Panic Buying: Data breaches can trigger panic buying, leading to shortages of essential items. Preparation through food storage can help mitigate the impact of such situations.
At Wise Food Storage, we understand the importance of being ready for anything. While we can’t control the actions of cybercriminals, we can help you prepare for other emergencies with our long-term food storage solutions. Our products are designed to provide peace of mind, ensuring that you and your family have reliable nourishment no matter what happens.
In these uncertain times, being proactive is key. Whether it’s protecting your identity or stocking up on essential supplies, preparation is the best defense against the unexpected.
Secure Your Personal Information:
The first step is to review your financial accounts for any unauthorized transactions. Immediately placing a fraud alert with the major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—can help detect any suspicious activity. This alert informs creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before extending credit.
Monitor Your Credit Reports:
Request a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus. Scrutinize these reports for any unfamiliar accounts or inquiries, which could be early signs of identity theft. Keeping an eye on your credit report can help you spot and address issues before they escalate.
Consider a Credit Freeze:
A credit freeze prevents new accounts from being opened in your name, providing an additional layer of security. While you’ll need to temporarily lift the freeze for any legitimate credit checks, it’s a crucial step in safeguarding your financial information.
Enhance Your Online Security:
Ensure that all your online accounts have two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled. This added security measure makes it significantly harder for cybercriminals to access your accounts, even if they have your password.
Be Cautious of Scams:
Phishing attacks often follow data breaches. Be wary of emails or messages requesting personal information. Look for signs of fraudulent communication, such as mismatched email addresses, grammatical errors, or unsolicited requests for sensitive information. If you suspect an email is a phishing attempt, avoid clicking on links and report it to your email provider.
Plan for Emergencies:
In addition to protecting your digital identity, preparing for physical emergencies is vital. Invest in reliable food storage solutions to ensure you and your family are ready for any situation. Our Wise Food Storage products offerlong-term, reliable nourishment that can be a lifesaver in times of need. With options like freeze-dried meals and comprehensive food supply kits, you can be confident that you’re prepared for both expected and unexpected emergencies.
