Protect Your Personal Information
Aug 20, 2024
Important Steps to Take Following Recent Data Breach
At Rally Credit Union, your security is our top priority. We want to keep you informed about a recent data breach at National Public Data, which may have exposed Social Security numbers and other sensitive personal information. While this breach has raised concerns, we are here to help you take proactive steps to protect your personal and financial information.
What Happened?
A hacker, known as "USDoD," reportedly infiltrated the systems of National Public Data earlier this year. Although the initial reports suggested a large number of individuals were affected, it has been determined that many of the stolen records belonged to the deceased. Importantly, there is currently no evidence that credit or debit card information was compromised in this breach. However, personal information such as Social Security numbers may have been exposed.
Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Information
We encourage all members to take the following actions to safeguard your accounts and personal information:
- Update Your Antivirus Software: Ensure your devices are protected by running an antivirus scan. If malware is detected, most antivirus programs can remove it, but you may need to seek professional help if you’re unsure how to proceed.
- Strengthen Your Passwords: Update passwords for your bank accounts, email, and social media accounts. Make sure each password is unique and strong, using a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessed information like your name or birthdate.
- Enable Multifactor Authentication: Where possible, add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling multifactor authentication. This step ensures that even if your password is compromised, your account remains secure.
- Monitor Your Credit Report: Regularly review your credit report for any unauthorized activity. If you notice anything suspicious, you can request a credit freeze to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
- Be Cautious with Emails and Social Media: Be vigilant against phishing attempts, which may try to trick you into giving away personal information. Always verify the source of an email or message before clicking on any links or providing sensitive information.
How Rally Credit Union Supports You
At Rally Credit Union, we are committed to protecting your personal information. Our team is available to answer any questions you may have and provide assistance with securing your accounts. If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly.
For more information on this data breach and additional resources, please visit the following links:
- NationalPublicData.com Hack Exposes a Nation’s Data – Krebs on Security
- 2.9 billion records stolen in Social Security data hack, USDoD claims (usatoday.com)
- Data Breach Exposes 3 Billion Personal Information Records | McAfee Blog
Protecting your financial well-being is our priority. We encourage you to stay informed and take the necessary steps to ensure your personal information remains secure.
Stay Safe, Stay Secure.
For any further assistance, please reach out to our member service team or visit a branch.