Protect Your Data From Potential Breaches In 6 Steps

Nowadays, your email address, passwords, and credit card details are becoming increasingly vulnerable to sensitive data leaks and breaches.

In 2022, the global average data breach cost was $4.35 million. Alarming, right?

But how do you even discover that your sensitive information has been compromised and is floating around on the internet? 

Check out these steps to confirm your data is secure.

1. Check For Data Breach Notifications

Before you send all those advertisement emails to the trash, be sure none of them are to inform you of potential data breaches. 

Many reputable websites and online services will send alerts to users whose accounts may have been compromised. 

These notifications often contain details about the data leaked and when the breach occurred. 

Checking your email is one of the quickest ways to find out if your data has been exposed, but also the most commonly overlooked.

So, make it a regular habit to look through emails that you’d normally just delete.

Utilize Online Data Breach Search Tools

2. Utilize Online Data Breach Search Tools

Online data breach search tools compare the data you give them with a database of known data breaches. You can enter your email, and the search tool will look for exact matches or variations. 

If a match is found, you’ll be notified of the breach. Usually, these tools will even provide details about when it occurred and what information was compromised. 

Have I Been Pwned and CyberNews are two common data breach search tools. 

Both options request that you enter your email address and, in return, will let you know if it has appeared in any known data breaches. 

Not only providing information on what data was compromised and when but also offering helpful tips on online privacy and security measures.

Just be sure to use a reputable search tool that:

  • Prioritizes user privacy.
  • Does not store the information you provide. 
  • Regularly updates on the data breaches.
  • Offers additional features like monitoring for future breaches. 

3. Use Identity Monitoring Services

In the first quarter of 2023, more than six million data records were exposed worldwide through data breaches. 

Identity monitoring services are designed to constantly scan the web for your personal information and help recover your data if it is online without your permission.

Look for services that offer real-time alerts, notifying you of any suspicious activity related to your data as soon as it is discovered.

4. Search For Yourself Online

A quick tip: perform a quick Google search of your name and any variations of your email addresses or usernames you commonly use. 

Cybercriminals often post leaked data on forums or websites, so searching your details might reveal if your information is out there for the world to see. Here’s how:

  • Run your name and email addresses in a search engine.
  • Check the results for any suspicious listings or mentions of your information.
  • Consider using quotation marks around your name for more precise results.
  • Repeat this search periodically to stay on top of your online presence.
Review Your Accounts

5. Review Your Accounts

Regularly checking your online accounts is essential. Social media, email, and financial platforms are good places to start.

Look for any unfamiliar activities or changes to your personal information, such as unauthorized password resets or account logins from unfamiliar locations.

It’s just as important to watch for any unexpected emails or messages requesting password changes or verification of personal details. 

Receiving these unsolicited communications or seeing unrecognized devices linked to your accounts should sound off some alarms.

6. Change Your Passwords And Get A VPN

One-third of malware breaches are caused by password-dumper malware. 

Changing your passwords regularly and using strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts is crucial.

Consider using a reputable password manager to generate and store complex passwords in a safe place.

It’s a great idea to get a VPN and encrypt your internet connection, too. Especially if you use public Wi-Fi. These public networks are a playing ground for hackers. 

A Chrome store VPN is an excellent option that will allow you to surf the web safely and keep your information protected from data leaks. 

Navigating the digital realm can feel like a thrilling roller coaster ride, and just like any adventure, it’s best to be prepared! 

Staying informed and vigilant is critical to protecting your sensitive information in the digital world. 

By embracing the steps we’ve shared, you’re not just protecting your data; you’re taking charge of your online journey. 

So, gear up, stay alert, and let’s make the internet a safer playground for all of us! 

Comments

READ THIS NEXT

Best Apps to Advance English Writing Skills

The Best Apps to Advance English Writing Skills

Advanced English writing skills are imperative for everyone with ambitions for a successful career. Whether you want to excel in writing, marketing, or business, your top-notch writing skills will always […]

nintendo ds rom

Is It Safe to Use Pokemon NDS ROM Hacks And Is It Legal?

Check out Pokemon NDS ROM hacks if you want to get ahead of the game! NDS ROM hacks are modified versions of the original Pokemon games that allow you to […]

How to go live on tiktok

How To Go Live On TikTok Without 1,000 Followers

Livestreaming has been the best thing to hit the Internet since the invention of instant messaging. Livestreaming has given countless people a way to share their lives online and connect […]

Top Game 3D Animation Studios Redefining The Gaming Industry

Top Game 3D Animation Studios Redefining The Gaming Industry 

In our modern digital age, the worldwide gaming industry has risen as a powerful form of entertainment. The advent of 3D animation, with its stunning visuals and engaging experiences, has […]

The Pros And Cons of Investing In Cryptocurrencies

The Pros And Cons of Investing In Cryptocurrencies

In the modern digital age, cryptocurrencies have revolutionized the financial landscape, with Bitcoin leading the way as the pioneer of decentralized digital currencies. As the popularity of Bitcoin continues to […]

porn

Best Porn Blocking Apps: Protect Your Family From Inappropriate Content

There are best porn blocking apps available that can help you regain control over your online experience. With the increasing availability of explicit content online, it can be challenging to […]

How Contract Management Software Transforms Legal Workflows

How Contract Management Software Transforms Legal Workflows

Contract management software plays a transformative role in legal workflows. They are the cat´´ meow nowadays. Why? Because they streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance collaboration. They offer a wide […]

How-To Apps is one of the fastest growing app websites in the world. We cover app technology, how-to guides, internet culture, and app news regularly. Since our launch just 8 months ago we've grown to help over 100k people per month on their app related questions. Want to know more?