Do you know how many different companies have your name and other personal information stored in their digital database? You trust those companies to keep your personal details secure because they make up your identity. When companies or organizations fail to keep their records safe, a dangerous data breach could expose you to the threat of fraud and identity theft.
As we explained previously, personally identifiable information (PII), is any data that could identify a particular person. This can include a number of things from your Social Security number to your email address. This information is information that you need to hold close to your chest and something you should not freely give out.
What Exactly is a Data Breach?
A data breach happens at any time an individual’s name and personal information are exposed to the risk of theft or fraud. In the modern age of technology and automated computer systems, this mostly means an incident where someone electronically steals information from a supposedly secure electronic database for the purposes of publication or sale. Subsequently, identity theft, credit card fraud, and tax fraud are common consequences of data breaches.
Many companies fear losing profits if customers find out their personal information has not been kept secure. Nevertheless, some estimate that over 70 percent of organizations have experienced a successful cyberattack. That means an unknowable number of consumers have their information exposed.
Common Types of Data Breaches
A data breach can involve any type of leaked personal information. The most common method used to access this information is an outside security breach, also known as a hack. Hackers are generally after personal information, such as:
- Credit Card Information
- Bank Account Information
- Social Security Numbers
- Personal & Business Addresses
- Email Addresses
- Phone Numbers
- Driver’s License Numbers
All sorts of companies and organizations have information like this in digital files. For example, banks, internet companies and places of business all have personal information from consumers stored somewhere on a server. Even the places that you wouldn’t think have your information, probably have more than you know.
Companies have an obligation to take all possible precautions to protect your personal information. If companies are negligent or careless in doing so, you could hold them accountable for any damages you suffer as a result of your compromised personal information.
Recent Data Breaches
Recently there have been some pretty big data breaches. So far this year Twitter, Marriott and Zoom have all been the victims of major data breaches. These breaches impacted millions of people all over the world. Significantly, Barack Obama and Elon Musk had their Twitter profiles hacked.
These are just three of the bigger ones that made national headlines.
How to Respond to a Data Breach
If you find out that a breach of security exposed your personal information, you should take the appropriate steps to protect yourself and your finances. First, you need to assess the amount of compromised data and in what form. Then, a qualified data breach class action attorney can help you hold these companies accountable for their security negligence.
Visit our contact page for information on the Maginnis Howard branch closest to you. Our experienced data breach attorneys serve North and South Carolina from our offices in Charlotte, Raleigh, and Fayetteville.
