AT&T recently made an alarming announcement regarding the discovery of a substantial data breach that impacts both present and past customers. The breach was detected after a dataset containing sensitive information surfaced on the dark web.
This dataset includes concerning details such as customers’ Social Security numbers and passcodes, putting an estimated 7.6 million current account holders and 65.4 million former account holders at risk.
What is AT&T Doing About the Data Breach?
AT&T is directly notifying affected customers via email or newsletter. As a proactive measure, the company has reset passcodes for current account holders. Additionally, AT&T has committed to providing credit monitoring services, where applicable, aiming to mitigate potential financial repercussions for those affected.
What Can You Do To Protect Your Accounts?
In light of this breach, AT&T customers are urged to take proactive measures to safeguard their personal information.
Use Strong Passwords
Consider changing your password for your AT&T account, regardless of whether you were affected in the recent data leak or not. This is also a good opportunity and a reminder to assess the strength of your passwords across all websites, particularly accounts with key personal identification information. Strong passwords generally contain various numbers and symbols, and it is key to avoid repeating passwords across multiple sites. Additionally, many sites now offer multi-factor authentication, which provides an added layer of security against scammers. Where available, enable multi-factor authentication to help mitigate the risk of data breaches.
Monitor Your Accounts
Although it is always beneficial to monitor accounts, this is even more crucial in the event of a data breach. Regularly review your bank statements, credit card bills, and other financial accounts for any suspicious activity. Consider also enrolling in a credit monitoring service to watch your credit reports and alert you of any unauthorized activity or attempts to open new accounts.
Consider a Credit Freeze
One crucial form of security is a credit freeze. When you place a freeze on your credit, it will prevent anyone, including scammers with access to your personal information, from opening any new credit accounts in your name.
The freeze can last as long as you need it to, and you can temporarily lift it if you need to open a new and legitimate credit account. It won’t harm your credit and can easily be set up by contacting each of the three major credit bureaus.
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Cory Reamer,
is an Advisor at The Welch Group, LLC, specializing in providing Fee-Only investment management and financial advice to families throughout the United States. Cory graduated as a student-athlete with a degree in Finance from The University of Alabama and is passionate about helping others on their financial journey. For more information, visit The Welch Group. Consult your financial advisor before acting on comments in this article.
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