When it happens, you feel powerless. You get an email or letter from a business saying someone breached your data. It happens all too often today. Data breaches occur at banks, online sites like Facebook, and ecommerce stores. Not only that, but governments are also victims. This leaves things like your address, Social Security number, and credit card details exposed to thieves.
A business getting hacked is something you have little control over. But you can take important steps afterward. Below, we’ve outlined eight essential actions to protect yourself and reduce the risk of financial loss.
1. Change Your Passwords
The very first thing you should do is change your passwords. Start with the service that sent you the breach notification. Then, update any other accounts that use the same password.
Using the same password across multiple accounts can put you at risk. To strengthen your security, use unique logins for every site. A password manager can help you generate strong, unique passwords and securely store them.
TechNellogic Tip: Missoula businesses can benefit from implementing password management tools for their teams. It’s a simple step that greatly enhances cybersecurity.
2. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
Multifactor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. Even if a hacker obtains your password, MFA can keep your accounts secure.
Common forms of MFA include:
Text message codes
Authentication apps
Physical security keys
TechNellogic Insight: At TechNellogic, we strongly recommend enabling MFA on all accounts to reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Our managed IT services can help businesses implement this crucial security feature.
3. Check Your Bank Accounts
If your payment card details were compromised, monitor your bank accounts for several weeks. Look for any unauthorized charges and report them immediately to your bank.
Inform your bank about the breach. They may issue a new card to prevent fraudulent charges and advise you on additional security measures.
4. Freeze Your Credit
Personal details exposed in a data breach can be used to open credit accounts in your name. To prevent identity theft, consider freezing your credit with the three major credit agencies:
Equifax
Experian
TransUnion
A credit freeze prevents anyone from opening new accounts under your name without your permission.
TechNellogic Tip: Regularly check your credit report for any suspicious activity. Missoula residents and businesses can take proactive measures by freezing their credit if necessary.
5. Carefully Review the Breach Notification
Review the notice you received to understand the scope of the breach. Look for details on what type of information was exposed and what the company is doing to address the situation.
Pay attention to:
The type of data exposed (passwords, financial details, etc.)
Available reparations (e.g., free credit monitoring)
Any steps the company recommends to secure your account
Keep an eye on the company’s website for updates, as new information may emerge over time.
6. Strengthen Your Cybersecurity Protections
Improve your device and network security with essential tools:
Antivirus/anti-malware software
DNS filtering to block malicious websites
Email spam filters to catch phishing attempts
Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your internet connection, especially when using public Wi-Fi.
TechNellogic Services: Looking for comprehensive cybersecurity solutions? Our managed IT services in Missoula can help protect your business from cyber threats.
7. Watch for Phishing Scams
After a breach, you may notice an increase in phishing emails. Cybercriminals use these emails to trick you into revealing sensitive information.
To avoid phishing scams:
Hover over links before clicking to verify their legitimacy
Visit websites directly instead of clicking on links in emails
Be cautious of emails from unknown senders
Stay alert for phishing attempts on social media and via text messages
TechNellogic Tip: Employee training and advanced email filtering solutions can help Missoula businesses reduce their risk of falling victim to phishing attacks.
8. Keep Your Software and Systems Updated
Outdated software can leave your devices vulnerable to cyberattacks. Regularly update your operating system, apps, and firmware to patch security vulnerabilities.
Automate updates whenever possible to ensure you don’t miss critical patches. This applies to computers, smartphones, routers, printers, and smart devices.
Protect Your Business with TechNellogic
Data breaches are an unfortunate reality, but you don’t have to face them alone. TechNellogic’s managed IT services can help secure your business and protect sensitive information.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can keep your Missoula business safe from cyber threats
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
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