A significant data breach at National Public Data (NPD) has left billions of Americans vulnerable, with personal information such as Social Security numbers exposed to cybercriminals.
The breach, which reportedly dates back to late 2023, was revealed recently by the company. The extent of the data leak is staggering, potentially impacting billions across the U.S., U.K., and Canada.
This breach has sparked widespread concern as the compromised data includes records going back 30 years.
The notorious hacking group USDoD has claimed responsibility for the breach, stating they initially attempted to sell the data for $3.5 million before releasing it publicly on the dark web.
The information released includes names, birth dates, addresses, and the last four digits of Social Security numbers, crucial details that can be misused for identity theft and fraud.
NPD, a data broker involved in selling information to various private and public entities, has been under scrutiny not just for the breach but also for obtaining data through questionable means.
If you suspect your data might be part of the Social Security Number breach, there are ways to check:
Cybersecurity firms Pentester and Atlas Privacy have developed tools (npd.pentester.com) and (npdbreach.com) to help individuals determine if their Social Security numbers were compromised.
These tools are accessible online and require users to input their name and birth year to check if their information is among the leaked data.
In response to the breach, cybersecurity experts strongly recommend closely monitoring financial accounts for suspicious activity.
Credit monitoring services, while commonly suggested, are often deemed less effective than implementing a credit freeze.
A credit freeze can prevent unauthorized access to your credit, offering stronger protection against potential misuse of your identity.
For those who discover their Social Security numbers were exposed, additional measures are advised.
Reporting the breach to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and setting up a fraud alert with credit bureaus can help mitigate potential damage.
In severe cases where fraud persists, it may be necessary to apply for a new Social Security number, although this is often difficult and requires proof of continued misuse.
The NPD breach serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in the extensive data collection practices of many companies.
While efforts are being made to address this specific incident, it also underscores the importance of regularly monitoring your financial activities, securing personal information, and staying informed about data security best practices.
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