Data Breach...Now What? What To Do If Your Private Data Is Leaked 

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Technology

February 18, 2021, 2:36 pm

by Kayla Wright-Abbott

Views: 5346

So your data has been leaked. Somewhere out in the dark web, a hacking goblin has accessed your most personal data. Whether you were a victim of a direct attack or your data was among thousands that were left in an unsecured cloud server such as the recent JAMCOVID19 Security Lapse - if you haven't heard about it, visit here. 

One of the most important things you can do after a data breach is to try to determine what information was possibly affected. In the case of the recent Jamcovid website breach, we know exactly which pieces of information were compromised. This short list of what to do next takes that in mind. 

We spoke to International Cyber Security Pro, Gavin Dennis who gave us some tips to secure your data, after a possible leak. 

Monitor your bank accounts under other online accounts for unusual activity.

Check your accounts regularly for unfamiliar charges. Small charges for odd amounts, like $405.46 or $2000.39, could be the first signs of a much bigger problem. You could also sign up to get real-time transaction alerts, so you can spot and flag unauthorized charges.

Look out for a spike in emails asking you for information. 

People with the data will likely try to impersonate legitimate businesses who would ask for similar personal information leaked in the breach.

Change Passwords

If you use the same password on multiple sites, access to these accounts can more quickly be gained based on one successful entry. Change these passwords immediately following news of a data breach. Also, consider setting up 2-factor authentication so that it's harder for someone to login who may have compromised your identity.

While you may not notice action immediately, the key now is to remain vigilant. Update what information can be updated and change what can be changed.

Good Luck!