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Check if your social security number was affected by a massive data breach

EPA: Cyberattacks on US water supply system are increasing

Cyberattacks on water utilities are becoming more frequent and severe across the country, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warned on Monday, urging water systems in an alert to take immediate action to protect the country's drinking water.

A hacker group claims to have stolen 2.7 billion records containing Americans' personal information.

These records include names, addresses, phone numbers and – worst of all – social security numbers.

The data was also stolen from National Public Data, a platform that provides personal information to employers, private investigators, recruitment agencies and others who conduct background checks.

Worried that your data is part of the data leak? Here's how to check if your data is among the billions of data leaked online.

How do I know if my personal information has been disclosed?

First, monitor and review credit reports for possible fraudulent activity on accounts and notify credit reporting agencies Equifax, TransUnion and Experian if anything seems suspicious.

There are also search databases like Pentester's, which lists all accounts leaked online. Simply enter your name, state, and date of birth to see if your information has been leaked. The search is free.

It is also recommended to add two-factor authentication for passwords and avoid using the same credentials for different services.

Always remember to change your account passwords regularly.

How do I protect my personal data?

Here are some steps to protect your personal information in the face of constant security threats.

  • Monitor accounts daily
  • Add a service that monitors your accounts and the dark web for you
  • Change passwords and add two-factor authentication
  • Avoid sharing passwords or accounts

Who is behind the data theft?

A hacking group called USDoD claimed in April to have stolen personal information from National Public Data in a massive data breach. NPD is a platform that offers personal information to employers, private investigators, staffing agencies and others who conduct background checks, the Los Angeles Times reported, citing a class-action lawsuit filed in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

According to Engadget, previous data leaks included phone numbers and email addresses, but that information was reportedly not part of the latest data release.

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