Massive Data Breach Exposes Billions of Individuals’ Information
A recent class action lawsuit has revealed one of the largest data breaches in history. Jerico Pictures Inc., a background check company operating as National Public Data, was hacked earlier this year, exposing confidential data for approximately 2.9 billion people. The breach, carried out by the hacker group USDoD, has left those affected vulnerable to identity theft and other cybercrimes.
What Makes This Breach Particularly Alarming?
One of the most concerning aspects of this breach is that many individuals may not even be aware that their information has been compromised. National Public Data obtains its data by scraping non-public sources without individuals’ knowledge or consent. This means that even if you’ve never heard of National Public Data, your personal information could still be at risk.
What Information Was Exposed?
The exposed data includes a wide range of personal details for nearly 3 billion people. This includes full names, both current and former addresses, Social Security numbers, and personal data tied to family members and deceased relatives. The sheer amount and specificity of this information make it highly valuable to cybercriminals.
When Did the Breach Occur?
The exact timeline of the breach remains unclear, as the company had not publicly disclosed the incident. It was only when Christopher Hofmann, a named plaintiff in the class action lawsuit, received a notification from an identity theft protection service in July that he became aware of the breach. The hacker group USDoD had already posted a database containing the leaked information on a dark web hacking forum in April, attempting to sell it for $3.5 million.
Comparing the National Public Data Breach to Other Major Breaches
The scale of the National Public Data breach makes it one of the largest single data breaches ever recorded. It is only rivaled by Yahoo’s 2013 data breach, which affected 3 billion accounts. However, unlike the RockYou2024 data leak, which was an updated compilation of previous breaches, the National Public Data breach involves newly exposed information. The gravity of this breach highlights the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures and stricter regulations to protect individuals’ personal data.
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?
If you suspect that your information may have been compromised in the National Public Data breach, it is crucial to take immediate action. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself against identity theft:
1. Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized activity. If you notice anything suspicious, report it to your financial institution immediately.
2. Change Your Passwords: Update your passwords for all online accounts, especially those that contain sensitive information. Use strong, unique passwords and consider using a password manager to help keep track of them.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your online accounts by enabling two-factor authentication. This requires you to provide a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password.
4. Be Wary of Phishing Attempts: Cybercriminals may try to exploit the breach by sending phishing emails or making fraudulent phone calls. Be cautious of any messages or calls asking for personal information and verify the legitimacy of the sender before responding.
5. Consider Identity Theft Protection: Investing in a reputable identity theft protection service can provide an added layer of security and help you monitor for any signs of fraudulent activity.
In conclusion, the National Public Data breach serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of cybercrime and the importance of safeguarding personal information. By staying vigilant and taking proactive measures to protect ourselves, we can minimize the risks associated with data breaches.
