That Awkward Moment When Your Data Leaks…What’s Next?
During the past few weeks, we’ve covered what data privacy means and how your information is collected and used. But what happens when that dreaded email hits your inbox—the one that says your data has been compromised? Where do you go from there?
First, don’t panic. Verify. Before taking any action, confirm the message is legitimate. Hover over links to ensure the URL matches the hyperlinked text and check for typos or anything that feels off. Scammers thrive on urgency and carelessness.
If your data has been compromised, start by changing the password on the affected account. If you’ve reused that password elsewhere—which you shouldn’t—change it there, too. Enable multifactor authentication (MFA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of protection. If financial data is involved, consider freezing your card or placing a credit freeze through the major bureaus.
Once the immediate issue is resolved, shift your attention to prevention. Start with strong passwords—long, unique and complex.
- Use a password manager to generate and store them securely.
- Wherever possible, enable multifactor authentication to add an extra layer of protection.
- Be mindful of who you share personal information with; reputable organizations will never ask for your password.
- Turn on login alerts for new devices and unfamiliar locations to stay aware of account activity.
- For financial accounts, activate notifications for new account openings and large transactions to catch suspicious behavior early.
Even with all these precautions, staying informed is key. Review your credit report at least once a year—AnnualCreditReport.com offers one free report annually. Keep an eye on the news for major breaches, as affected organizations typically reach out directly. As an added safety precaution, use tools like HaveIBeenPwned to check whether your email has appeared in known data breaches.
