AT&T recently announced that the data of 73 million current and former customers has been found on the dark web. This data, which includes Social Security numbers, appears to be from 2019 or earlier and affects approximately 7.6 million current account holders and 65.4 million former customers. The breach was first reported in 2021 by hackers who claimed to have stolen customer data from AT&T and threatened to sell it. The information discovered on the dark web includes customer names, addresses, phone numbers, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth.
In response to the breach, AT&T has contacted the 7.6 million current customers whose data was stolen and reset their passcodes. However, it is important for all customers, both current and former, to take steps to protect themselves from potential damage. By using tools like Have I Been Pwned, Google’s Password Checkup tool, or a premium password manager like Bitwarden, individuals can check if their data has been exposed and take necessary precautions. Monitoring credit reports for signs of fraud is also crucial, as it allows individuals to detect any unusual activity and potential unauthorized charges.
If you suspect that your personal information has been compromised in the AT&T data breach, there are steps you can take to prevent further damage and recover your identity. Placing a fraud alert with credit reporting companies like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion can alert creditors to verify new credit requests in your name. Contacting fraud departments of businesses or credit card companies where fraudulent activity may have occurred is also essential. Freezing your credit can prevent unauthorized individuals from opening new accounts or requesting loans in your name without permission.
Creating a recovery plan and documenting all related expenses and conversations about the theft can aid in the process of reporting identity theft and disputing charges. It is important to act promptly and take proactive measures to safeguard your personal information in the aftermath of a data breach. By utilizing credit monitoring services, setting up fraud alerts, and being vigilant about monitoring credit reports, individuals can protect themselves from potential identity theft and financial harm. Additionally, tools like password managers and VPN services can enhance online security and privacy.
