As a consumer, you may be tired of the constant notices that your information has been involved in a data breach. If you’re worried about protecting your sensitive information, you may wonder if there is anything you can do to prevent a data breach in the future. The following blog explores what you should know about data breaches and the importance of working with an Arroyo Grande Consumer lawyer to assist you in these difficult legal matters.
How Do Data Breaches Happen?
Generally, a data breach occurs as the result of someone accessing information they are not authorized to see. Data breaches can range in severity from accidentally sending an email including important information to an employee within the organization who does not have clearance to outside hackers infiltrating systems to steal consumer details. It’s important to understand that hackers are often able to access these servers due to inadequate or outdated security measures. Additionally, these breaches can occur anywhere, from doctors’ offices and government agencies to retail stores and streaming services.
In some instances, when outside hackers access this information, they will sell the details to others on the dark web to use for nefarious purposes. Often, thieves will take login information, full names, addresses, birth dates, and even social security numbers. Once this information is on the dark web, it can lead to a considerable amount of trouble as thieves can access your information from all over the world.
Is There Anything I Can Do to Prevent a Data Breach?
Unfortunately, you’ll find that as a consumer, there is little you can do to prevent a data breach. It is ultimately the responsibility of the company to ensure its security measures are up to date to prevent information from falling into the wrong hands. However, there are steps you can take to help minimize the risk that your accounts will be compromised.
One of the best steps you can take is to minimize how much information you store on websites. Often, when you make online purchases, your information is automatically stored on the website. This can include your credit card information, dates of birth, social security information, and addresses. As such, taking the time to manually enter this information every time rather than storing it on the servers can help reduce the risk of your data being compromised.
Another important step you can take to help in the event of a data breach is to turn on two-factor authentication for your accounts. In these instances, in the event that someone can access your information, this provides an extra layer of security as they’ll need access to your information, like access to your email or phone number, to access your information.
If you have been impacted by a data breach in California, it’s imperative to understand your rights. At Loker Law, APC, we believe the company responsible for failing to protect your data should be held liable. That’s why our dedicated legal team will do everything possible to assist you in fighting for the justice you deserve while helping you reclaim your identity. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.
