Make Sure Your Router Is Secure
There's a reason browsers like Edge have implemented breached password notifications: data breaches can have costly repercussions for individuals. Hackers may steal identities and compromise bank accounts, just to name a couple of examples.
Cybercriminals attack an estimated 4,800 websites each month with form jacking code. It has become all too common to hear stories of major hotel chains or social media companies being breached for customer data breaches.
Hackers can access your personal information and passwords without you knowing, often taking an extended period to notify you. One example of a data breach occurring recently at CafePress - an online retailer that prints personalized items - illustrates this point.
In February 2019, CafePress experienced a data breach which exposed millions of names, addresses, security questions and more. Furthermore, hackers gained access to unencrypted social security numbers.
As previously reported, the breach occurred in February; however, many consumers weren't alerted until late summer. Recently, the FTC took action against the company due to their negligent security practices.
It's possible that months or even years can pass before you become aware of compromised data. Unless you look at the right website, it could go undetected for months or even years. While breached password features in browsers are helpful, what if other information beyond a password has been exposed?
It's best to arm yourself with knowledge. We'll assist you by listing several recent breaches. If you've engaged with any of these companies, take steps now to safeguard yourself from potential repercussions.
Recent Breaches of Personal Information That May Affect You
Microsoft Customer Data Breach
On October 19, 2022, Microsoft revealed a data breach that exposed customer information due to an incorrectly configured server. This compromise exposed certain business transaction data and it's estimated that more than 65,000 entities worldwide may have been affected by this event.
2.5 Million Records Exposed in Student Loan Breach
Did you take out a student loan from EdFinancial or the Oklahoma Student Loan Authority (OSLA)? If so, be wary. These organizations notified affected individuals by letter in July 2022.
At risk were:
- Social Security Numbers;
- Email addresses;
- Home addresses
- Phone numbers.
Unfortunately, the breach affected over 2.5 million loan recipients with social security numbers, email addresses and home addresses.
U-Haul Data Breach Affecting 2.2 Million Individuals' Records
U-Haul, a well-known rental firm, recently suffered an enormous data breach. They notified clients in August 2022 of the compromise of some rental contracts between November 5, 2021, and April 5, 2022.
The breach exposed names, driver's license numbers and state identification numbers for over 2.2 million customers who rented vehicles from the company.
Neopets Breach May Have Impacted 69 Million Accounts
Neopets may seem like a secure site, but its users got an unpleasant surprise due to a breach of its service. According to estimates, up to 69 million accounts had their emails and passwords exposed.
For approximately $94,500, the full Neopet database and source code were being sold.
One Employee Computer Causes a Marriott Breach
Hotel giant Marriott experienced yet another breach in July 2022, this time due to an unsecured employee computer. An estimated 300-400 individuals had their data exposed - including credit card numbers and other confidential information.
Unfortunately, the company has a pattern of weak cybersecurity. Within four years, there have been three separate breaches. That should be enough reason enough for you to pay with cash or use a pre-paid card if you stay there.
Shield Health Care Group Uncovers Up to Two Million Records
In March 2022, Shield Health Care Group discovered a data breach. This Massachusetts-based company discovered that hackers had access to up to 2 million customer records - including medical records, social security numbers and other sensitive personal data.
Flagstar Bank Requires 6 Months to Determine Individuals Affected by Breach
In December 2021, Flagstar Bank experienced a breach. It wasn't until six months later that it identified those affected - with exposed social security numbers impacting nearly 1.5 million customers.
8.2 million Current and Former Customers of Block Compromise
Block, formerly known as Square, a prominent payment processing platform, announced in April 2022 that it had been breached the previous December. A former employee gained access to customer names and brokerage account numbers; some accounts also had other stock trading information taken.
Data of approximately 8.2 million current and former customers was exposed.
Crypto.com Breach Profits Hackers Over $30 Million
Cryptocurrency may be trending right now, but it's highly vulnerable to cyberattacks. In January 2022 alone, over 483 users experienced their Crypto.com wallets being breached.
Two-factor authentication was bypassed, which is usually effective. The criminals made off with $18 million in Bitcoin and $15 million in Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies.
How Secure Are Your Passwords?
There are several solutions that can help you better manage and secure your passwords. Contact us to find out more about safeguarding your personal data in case of a data breach.
