In a chilling new development, reports have surfaced that hackers have stolen the Social Security numbers and other personal information of nearly every American. The breach in April targeted National Public Data—a company that provides personal information to employers, private investigators, and others conducting background checks. According to a class-action lawsuit filed in federal court in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the hacking group known as USDoD is responsible for stealing 2.9 billion records.
USDoD initially attempted to sell the stolen data for $3.5 million but has now made most of it available for free on an online exchange for trading stolen personal data. The stolen records reportedly include names, mailing addresses, and Social Security numbers, with some records containing additional information, such as aliases. Disturbingly, none of the data was encrypted, making it easier for the hackers to exploit.
The exposure of this data has raised significant concerns about a potential surge in identity theft. Public advocates warn that this breach could lead to a ‘tsunami’ of fraud as criminals gain access to sensitive personal information. The risk of identity theft is not a distant possibility; it’s a looming threat. Experts stress the need for immediate action to protect yourself.
One of the most effective measures you can take is to freeze your credit files at the three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. By doing so, you can prevent unauthorized individuals from opening new financial accounts in your name, significantly reducing the risk of identity theft. As we navigate this alarming breach, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and take steps to safeguard your financial security.
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