From Giving to Stealing: December Data Breaches Reported by the Texas OAG
It is inevitable, that no matter how great a business's cyber security is, it seems that hackers can break in and steal valuable info. The thing is, it's not just the company's valuable info, it is your info these hackers are getting.
What Kind of Valuable Info Do Hackers Steal?
In the majority of these data breaches vital data is stolen other than your name and address. many times it includes, your social security number, driver's license or passport info, or health insurance info, which if used can destroy your credit in a heartbeat.
Thousands of data breaches occur each year, and these thieves don't just focus on one business, they go after all types of businesses from hospitals to schools, media companies to transportation companies.
How Many Data Breaches Did Texas Report in December?
According to the Texas Attorney General page, over 51 data breaches in December affected Texans.
December Data Breaches from the Texas OAG
Gallery Credit: Lori Crofford
According to the Federal Trade Commission, companies are legally required to take the following steps after a data breach:
- Notify customers
- Investigate breach
- Mitigate further damage
- Security improvements
- Potentially offer credit monitoring or identity theft protection
Depending on the severity of the breach, they may face legal repercussions.
How to Make Sure Your Data Isn't Used After a Breach
If you are a customer of any of these companies, included in this month's breaches, check your mail pile for a letter, or email to see what steps you need to take to make sure your data isn't being used.
You might also invest in credit monitoring or identity theft protection if the company doesn't provide a resource.
Texas OAG List of Data Breaches for November
Gallery Credit: Lori Crofford