Why You Should Check for a Data Breach
Data breaches and cybersecurity are a growing concern. Today’s world brings technology into almost every aspect of our daily lives – from smart devices that run our sprinkler systems to routine credit card purchases – making us vulnerable to theft or misuse of our personal information.
Very vulnerable. A data hacking incident occurs every 39 seconds worldwide, affecting one in three Americans each year. Data breaches exposed 4.1 billion records in the first half of 2019.
Not only are the number of security breaches going up, they are increasing in severity. Many large organizations have experienced significant threats of confidential data.
In just the past few weeks, the Arnold Law Firm has reported on incidents that compromised personal information involving:
Companies that use your personal information have a duty to keep your data safe and comply with data privacy legislation, including the California Privacy Act (CCPA) for residents of California. Cybersecurity incidents expose sensitive information that can leave victims at risk for identity theft and fraud.
It is likely that you, or someone you know, has suffered a data breach, perhaps without realizing it. Yet 64 percent of Americans have never checked to see if their personal information may have been compromised.
Most people simply don’t know what steps to take in the event of a data breach or how to find out if they have been involved in one.
We suggest that you search your email folders for “notice of data breach” or “notice of security incident.” These notices are commonly screened by spam filters and may not reach your inbox. You may find a data breach notice that you did not know about!
If you are a resident of California, you can also check the California Attorney General website for an up-to-date list of data breaches. Search for vendors you have used. The organization listing will include a sample NOTICE OF DATA BREACH sent to affected individuals with details about the data breach.
If you have received a NOTICE OF DATA BREACH and are located in California, contact the Arnold Law Firm at (916) 777-7777 to discuss your situation and legal options.