Takes steps to protect your identity

It seems that there is a news story almost every day about a significant data breach. It might be from a medical office, a credit card company, school or insurance carrier. It has become clear how common data breaches are these days and how important it is to stay safe. It is certainly very concerning when you are one of millions of customers whose personal information has been exposed. BBB has tips for consumers to protect personal information and reduce identity theft risks. This is important whether you're a customer of the affected companies or not.

What is a data breach?

Companies have a large amount of their customers' personal information stored in digital spaces. Thieves want access to that information. They may target companies with malware, or they may exploit weaknesses in digital security measures. Once they steal the information, there are many avenues for these bad actors to sell it on the dark web or use it in their own fraud schemes.

What is the risk to consumers?

No two data breaches are the same, and each incident can expose unique information. Thieves may use stolen information for all manner of ID theft, to fraudulently apply for credit, unemployment benefits and more. In some cases, consumers' financial accounts may be accessible to thieves.

Companies collect more customer data than ever before. They save payment methods, passwords, addresses and other information. This allows people to save time and ensure bills are paid on time and budget effectively. However, it also increases the risk of identity theft. Consumers must take extra care to protect their personally identifiable information.

BBB recommends consumers take these steps to protect their data against a breach:

• Don't over-share online. Avoid posting personal information on social media. It's not just about your social security number; online quizzes, and games are risky. Things like your first pet's name or the town you were born in can be used to hack accounts.

• Check your credit report and financial statements. Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and notify account providers as quickly as possible. A free yearly credit report is available at annualcreditreport.com.

• Use strong passwords, changing them regularly. Protect your accounts with complex and unique passwords.

• Implement two-factor authentication on accounts and devices. Two-factor authentication sends a code to your phone or email to verify that the account owner is the one logging in.

• Shop with businesses that protect customer information. Check for basic security measures. There should be an HTTPS in the address bar and a clear and detailed privacy policy. Look for and check the validity of trust seals like the Accredited Business logo.

Even the most careful consumers can fall victim. Be aware that if your information is the subject of a breach, the company has certain obligations to appropriately notify consumers and, in some cases to supply free credit monitoring. It is frustrating that a hacking event can also provide further opportunity for scammers. Beware of this twist where contact is made suggesting actions to "fix" the problem. Phishing emails may also attempt to fool victims into providing sensitive information or click on a link.

Remember, when it doubt, check it out by contacting the BBB at 1-800-222-1600 or at www.bbb.org.