How to Protect Yourself After a Data Breach with CMIT Solutions of Dallas

When you receive a notice that your data has been exposed in a breach, it can feel overwhelming and frustrating. Unfortunately, data breaches are increasingly common, targeting everything from banks and e-commerce sites to governments and social media platforms. These incidents leave sensitive information—like Social Security numbers, credit card details, and addresses—vulnerable to cybercriminals.

While you can’t always prevent a business from being hacked, you can take steps to protect yourself afterward. CMIT Solutions of Dallas is here to guide you through the key actions to take after a breach to reduce financial loss and safeguard your information.

Steps to Take After a Data Breach

1. Change Your Passwords

The first thing you should do is change the password for the affected service. Then, update passwords for any other accounts using the same login credentials.

Using unique passwords for every site is a cybersecurity best practice. If this feels overwhelming, consider using a password manager to create and securely store strong passwords.

2. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, protecting you even if your password is compromised. Activate MFA for the breached service and any other accounts that offer it.

Common MFA methods include:

• Text messages

• Authentication apps (like Google Authenticator)

• Physical security keys

3. Check Your Bank Accounts

If your payment card details were exposed, monitor your bank accounts closely for fraudulent activity. Notify your bank about the breach and request a new card if necessary.

Reporting the breach to your financial institution can help protect you from liability for unauthorized charges and ensure you receive guidance on fraud prevention.

4. Freeze Your Credit

To prevent identity theft, contact the three major credit bureaus to freeze your credit. This stops criminals from opening new accounts in your name.

The credit bureaus are:

• Equifax

• Experian

• TransUnion

Freezing your credit is simple and can be done online through each bureau’s website.

5. Review the Breach Notification Carefully

Read the notice you received to understand what data was compromised and how it might affect you.

Pay attention to:

• The type of information exposed (e.g., passwords, Social Security numbers)

• What the company is offering (e.g., free credit monitoring)

• Any steps they recommend to secure your account

Check the company’s website periodically for updates, as the full scope of a breach may take time to uncover.

6. Strengthen Your Cybersecurity

Protect your devices and network with essential security tools, such as:

• Antivirus and anti-malware programs

• DNS filtering to block harmful websites

• Email spam filtering to reduce phishing emails

Additionally, consider using a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your internet traffic, especially when using public Wi-Fi. VPNs are available for both computers and mobile devices.

7. Be on the Lookout for Phishing Scams

Data breaches often result in an increase in phishing attempts, as hackers use stolen email addresses to target victims.

To avoid phishing scams:

• Hover over links to check their destination before clicking.

• Visit websites directly instead of clicking links in emails or texts.

• Be cautious of messages from unknown senders or unusual requests.

• Stay vigilant on social media and messaging apps, as phishing isn’t limited to email.

8. Keep Software and Systems Updated

Outdated software is a common gateway for hackers. Ensure that all your devices are running the latest versions of their operating systems, apps, and firmware.

Whenever possible, enable automatic updates to simplify this process.

Stay Protected with Managed Security Services

Dealing with the aftermath of a data breach can be stressful, but having the right cybersecurity protections in place can make all the difference. At CMIT Solutions of Dallas, we offer managed security services to help businesses and individuals stay safe online.

Contact us today to learn how we can improve your device and network security, ensuring you’re protected from future threats.