A data breach happens when hackers or other unauthorized people gain access to personal information stored by a company or organization. This information can include passwords, Social Security numbers, credit card numbers or other sensitive data. Breaches are common and can affect millions of people at once. When this happens, your personal information can be used to open accounts, make purchases or commit identity theft in your name. 

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends the following steps to help protect yourself from identity theft after a data breach:   

• Act quickly if you receive a breach notice: Find out what type of information was exposed so you know which accounts may be at risk. 

• Change your passwords: Update the password for the affected account and any other accounts that used the same password. 

• Enable multi factor authentication (MFA): Turn on extra security for important accounts such as banking or email. 

• Freeze your credit: This prevents criminals from opening new accounts in your name. 

• Place a fraud alert if needed: If you cannot freeze your credit, contact one of the major credit bureaus to place a free fraud alert. 

• Monitor your accounts: Watch your bank, credit card and other financial accounts closely for suspicious activity. 

• Use free protection services: If the company that experienced the breach offers free credit monitoring or identity protection consider enrolling. 

• Secure your devices: Run security scans and keep your devices and software updated. 

If you believe someone is using your information, report it and get a recovery plan at the FTC identity theft website.