You’ve been breached

 

So you’ve been breached

It’s easy to push aside news of a data breach; there are just so many, it’s all turned into white noise. The Change Healthcare hack alone exposed one-third of Americans. Spoiler: I alert you to a breach affecting Taylor Swift fans below.

So, what do you do if your data is exposed? Your No. 1 goal is to protect yourself from future scams.

Do these things right away

Make a list of your data that was exposed. Keep a document, Post-it, a note on your phone — whatever. Be suspicious of anyone who references it in an email or phone call to prove they’re legit. Say your home address was leaked and someone contacts you about an issue with your mortgage. Yep, it’s probably a scam.

Watch your money, honey. Update your PIN and banking login credentials. Even if they weren’t involved directly in the breach, hackers can use your personal info to access it. Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements.

Freeze your credit. This will keep scammers from opening a credit card or loan in your name. Like setting up a fraud alert, you'll need to contact each of the three credit bureaus.

Crooks love to play the long game

They’ll wait until your guard is down and target you months after the initial breach.

• Be wary of any email requests. Even if a request ends up being legit, it’s OK to take your time to figure it out. If it’s the first you’re hearing of something, it’s not urgent. Better safe than sorry.
• Watch out for health care-related requests. If you receive an explanation of benefits (EOB) or a bill for services you didn't receive, contact your health care provider and insurance company right away.
• If you get an out-of-the-blue message from an old friend, be extremely cautious. Hackers love to use your info to pose as friends or family.

Take these steps to protect yourself now, and share this with fam, friends and coworkers. Future you will thank you.