The AT&T data breach affected 73 million current and former customers whose personal information, including Social Security numbers, was stolen and put up for sale on the dark web. In response, AT&T is offering free credit monitoring and identity theft detection services through Experian’s IdentityWorks for one year. The company has reset passcodes for affected current customers and is communicating with both current and former account holders about the breach. AT&T has urged customers to sign up for the identity theft protection service by August 30, 2024, and has provided instructions on how to reset passcodes. Additionally, individuals can check if their data was part of the breach by using tools like Have I Been Pwned and Google’s Password Checkup.
Anyone who suspects they may be a victim of fraud or identity theft should take immediate action to protect their information. This includes placing fraud alerts with credit reporting companies, contacting fraud departments at businesses and credit card companies, and freezing credit to prevent unauthorized access. Creating a recovery plan and documenting all expenses and conversations related to the theft can help individuals navigate the process of recovering their identity. Monitoring credit reports for unusual activity and signing up for credit monitoring services can also help individuals detect and respond to fraudulent activity in a timely manner.
While AT&T has taken steps to address the data breach and provide support to affected customers, individuals should be proactive in safeguarding their personal information and monitoring for potential signs of fraud. By staying informed about the breach, resetting passcodes, monitoring credit reports, and taking steps to protect their identity, individuals can reduce the risk of falling victim to identity theft and financial fraud. Investing in identity theft protection services and maintaining awareness of online security best practices can further enhance personal data security in an increasingly digital world.
