A data breach is when an unauthorised third-party accesses sensitive or confidential information. Think: login details, NHI and IRD numbers, or financial information. Breaches can stem from cyberattacks, like phishing or malware, but also from insider threats or system flaws.
If your data was exposed through a breach the risks are largely the same. If only your email or phone number are involved, the impact may be limited to spam, scams, or unwanted contact. But if financial details or NHI numbers are exposed, you could face stolen funds, credit damage, and even identity theft.
1. Confirm if your data was compromised
When a company suffers a data breach, they’re legally required to notify affected customers. But even without an official notice, unusual account activity may signal trouble. That’s why it’s important to check proactively for signs of a data breach instead of waiting for confirmation.
· Review your credit reports: Scan your credit reports for unfamiliar accounts or inquiries.
· Watch for suspicious login alerts.
· Try a data breach checker: Plug your information into a breach detection tool to see if your data has surfaced on the dark web – the hidden part of the internet where leaked data is often posted or sold.
2. Determine what data was exposed
Different kinds of data exposure lead to different risks.
· Personally identifiable information (PII): Exposure of PII, like your full name, address, or birth date can make you a more vulnerable scam target.
· NHI number: This is a significant security concern, as an NHI number can be exploited for identity theft, insurance claims, and phishing scams.
· IRD number: This is among the most serious breaches, since IRD number can be used for identity theft and fraud.
· Email address: If your email appears in a data breach, you’re likely to see an uptick in spam and phishing messages.
· Passwords: If your password or account credentials are leaked, you are at heightened risk of account takeovers.
· Credit card details: If your credit card details are exposed in a data breach, you’re at risk of credit card fraud.
3. Secure vulnerable accounts
After a data breach, attackers may try to break into your accounts or lock you out of them.
· Change your passwords.
· Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA).
· Remove unfamiliar devices.
4. Freeze or lock your credit
If highly sensitive information like your IRD number is exposed in a data breach, criminals could try to open new lines of credit in your name. Placing a credit freeze on your credit reports prevents lenders from accessing them.
5. Set up fraud alerts
Fraud alerts give lenders a heads-up that you may be a victim of fraud when they run your credit. If you were involved in a breach or suspect you may have been, request the standard one-year fraud alert. If you actually fell victim to identity theft, look into an extended fraud alert, which protects you for seven years.
6. Monitor your reports
Continue to monitor your reports closely for at least a year after a data breach – potentially longer if you notice suspicious activity.
· Bank statements: Review transactions for unauthorised or unfamiliar charges.
· Credit reports: Look for unfamiliar accounts or credit checks that could signal fraud.
7. Warn people you know
If your accounts or contact details were exposed in a data breach, attackers may try to use that information to scam your friends, family, or coworkers. To reduce the risk, give your contacts a heads-up so they know to be cautious with unusual messages. Remind them not to click suspicious links, download unexpected attachments, or share sensitive information without confirming it’s really from you. A quick warning can go a long way.
How to protect yourself from future data breaches
No one can fully guarantee protection from a data breach, but good security habits can reduce your risk and limit the damage if one occurs.The key is to protect your accounts, share less information, and stay alert for scams:
· Use multiple email accounts.
· Strengthen your passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for every account.
· Look out for signs of scams.
· Verify before you click.
· Limit information sharing.
· Sign up for identity theft protection.
