Modern Australian
Men's Weekly

.

Another day, another data breach – what to do when it happens to you

  • Written by Cassandra Cross, Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Queensland University of Technology
Another day, another data breach – what to do when it happens to you

Reports of data breaches are an increasingly common occurrence. In recent weeks, Ticketmaster, HealthEngine, PageUp and the Tasmanian Electoral Commission have all reported breaches.

It is easy to tune out to what is happening, particularly if it’s not your fault it happened in the first place.

But there are simple steps you can take to minimise the risk of the problem progressing from “identity compromise” to “identity crime”.

Read more: How identity data is turning toxic for big companies

In 2012 former FBI Director Robert Mueller famously said:

I am convinced that there are only two types of companies: those that have been hacked and those that will be. And even they are converging into one category: companies that have been hacked and will be hacked again.

The types of personal information compromised might include names, addresses, dates of birth, credit card numbers, email addresses, usernames and passwords.

In some cases, very sensitive details relating to health and sexuality can be stolen.

What’s the worst that can happen?

In most cases, offenders are looking to gain money. But it’s important to differentiate between identity compromise and identity misuse.

Identity compromise is when your personal details are stolen, but no further action is taken. Identity misuse is more serious. That’s when your personal details are not only breached but are then used to perpetrate fraud, theft or other crimes.

Offenders might withdraw money from your accounts, open up new lines of credit or purchase new services in your name, or port your telecommunication services to another carrier. In worst case scenarios, victims of identity crime might be accused of a crime perpetrated by someone else.

The Australian government estimates that 5% of Australians (approximately 970,000 people) will lose money each year through identity crime, costing at least $2.2 billion annually. And it’s not always reported, so that’s likely a conservative estimate.

Read more: Cambridge Analytica is more than a data breach – it's a human rights problem

While millions of people are exposed to identity compromise, far fewer will actually experience identity misuse.

But identity crime can be a devastating and traumatic event. Victims spend an average of 18 hours repairing the damage and seeking to restore their identity.

It can be very difficult and cumbersome for a person to prove that any actions taken were not of their own doing.

How will I know I’ve been hacked?

Many victims of identity misuse do not realise until they start to receive bills for credit cards or services they don’t recognise, or are denied credit for a loan.

The organisations who hold your data often don’t realise they have been compromised for days, weeks or even months.

And when hacks do happen, organisations don’t always tell you upfront. The introduction of mandatory data breach notification laws in Australia is a positive step toward making potential victims aware of a data compromise, giving them the power to take action to protect themselves.

What can I do to keep safe?

Most data breaches will not reveal your entire identity but rather expose partial details. However, motivated offenders can use these details to obtain further information.

These offenders view your personal information as a commodity that can be bought, sold and traded in for financial reward, so it makes sense to protect it in the same way you would your money.

Here are some precautionary measures you can take to reduce the risks:

  • Always use strong and unique passwords. Many of us reuse passwords across multiple platforms, which means that when one is breached, offenders can access multiple accounts. Consider using a password manager.

  • Set up two-factor authentication where possible on all of your accounts.

  • Think about the information that you share and how it could be pieced together to form a holistic picture of you. For example, don’t use your mother’s maiden name as your personal security question if your entire family tree is available on a genealogy website.

And here’s what to do if you think you have been caught up in a data breach:

  • Change passwords on any account that’s been hacked, and on any other account using the same password.

  • Tell the relevant organisation what has happened. For example, if your credit card details have been compromised, you should contact your bank to cancel the card.

  • Report any financial losses to the Australian Cybercrime Online Reporting Network.

  • Check all your financial accounts and consider getting a copy of your credit report via Equifax, D&B or Experian. You can also put an alert on your name to prevent any future losses.

  • Be alert to any phishing emails. Offenders use creative methods to trick you into handing over personal information that helps them build a fuller profile of you.

  • If your email or social media accounts have been compromised, let your contacts know. They might also be targeted by an offender pretending to be you.

  • You can access personalised support at iDcare, the national support centre for identity crime in Australia and New Zealand.

Read more: The latest health data breach is one reason why I’ll be opting out of MyHealthRecord

The vast number of data breaches happening in the world makes it easy to tune them out. But it is important to acknowledge the reality of identity compromise. That’s not to say you need to swear off social media and never fill out an online form. Being aware of the risks and how to best to reduce them is an important step toward protecting yourself.

For further information about identity crime you can consult ACORN, Scamwatch, or the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.

If you are experiencing any distress as a result of identity crime, please contact Lifeline.

Authors: Cassandra Cross, Senior Lecturer in Criminology, Queensland University of Technology

Read more http://theconversation.com/another-day-another-data-breach-what-to-do-when-it-happens-to-you-99150

Building a Governance Model for Headless Content Management at Scale

Image by pch.vector on Freepik There's never been a better time to implement a headless content management system (CMS) to gain the flexibility and ...

Understanding Trade Insurance: Essential Protection for Businesses

Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik In the current economic environment, trade insurance is an important element for companies trading both locally an...

Choosing the Right Timber for External Cladding

Timber cladding is one of those finishes that pulls double duty: it makes a building look warm and welcoming, and it quietly shields the frame from ...

Top Services Offered by Diesel Mechanics in Brisbane

Keeping a diesel vehicle running at its best takes more than the occasional oil change. When you invest in regular specialist care, you protect the ...

Top 5 Benefits of Hiring Professional House Removalists

Moving day should feel like the start of a new adventure, not the end of your patience. Yet once the settlement papers are signed and the champagne ...

Navigating the Digital Landscape: Managed IT Solutions and IT Services in Townsville

As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, companies must adapt to embrace the transformation ahead. With an evolving technology landscape, mana...

Types of Catering You Should Consider for Your Next Event

Choosing the right type of catering service can elevate your event from ordinary to unforgettable. Whether it’s an elegant wedding, corporate func...

Understanding the Benefits of Split System Installation for Your Home

Climate control is essential to maintaining comfort in your home, especially during the extreme temperatures that many regions face. Whether you’r...

Best Aluminium Window Sliding Designs for Natural Light and Airflow

Bringing natural light and airflow into a space is one of the most efficient ways to create a healthy and comfortable home. In Sydney and across Aus...

Maximising Operational Efficiency: Electric Winch Hire Australia and Hydraulic Power Pack Hire Solutions

Image by jcomp on Freepik From urban construction sites and remote mining operations to coastal maritime facilities, specialised equipment solutio...

Navigating the System: Your Guide to Support Finding Work with a Disability Around Melbourne

Image by freepik Finding the right job can be a challenge for anyone, but it can feel particularly daunting when you're also navigating life with a ...

Say Goodbye to Draughts and Hello to Savings: Your Guide to Perth Window Replacement

Image by prostooleh on Freepik Are your windows looking worse for wear? Are you paying a hefty power bill due to sneaky draughts and poor insulation...

How to Choose the Right Horse Trailer for Your Riding Needs

Many horse owners travel long distances for riding lessons, competitions, or to move horses between properties. Having a safe and reliable trailer i...

Sydney Turf Installer for Instant Green Lawns and Long-Term Performance

Having a green lawn at home makes everything look better. Whether it’s the front yard, backyard, or a small patch beside the driveway, people in S...

Designing Better Living Spaces: Why New Kitchens in the Blue Mountains Are in High Demand

The Blue Mountains region is seeing a steady rise in home upgrades. According to recent housing data, kitchen renovations remain one of the most req...

The Role of Packaging Manufacturers in Reducing Supply Chain Costs

In today’s fast-paced logistics and distribution landscape, businesses are under constant pressure to optimise operations and reduce expenses. One...

Customising Roller Shutters for Warehouses, Factories, and Logistics Hubs

In today’s fast-paced industrial and commercial environments, security, functionality, and efficiency are paramount. Whether you manage a busy log...

Top Fire Hazards in Commercial Buildings and How to Avoid Them

When it comes to protecting lives, assets, and business continuity, fire safety should be at the forefront of every commercial property owner’s ri...