What Happened in the NPD Data Breach?
In one of the most significant data breaches in recent history, National Public Data (NPD), a major provider of background checks, fell victim to a massive cyberattack in April 2024. Hackers from the group USDoD managed to steal unencrypted personal information, including Social Security numbers, addresses, and the names of family members. This data breach affects billions of records, making it a major concern for anyone with an SSN.
The breach was first brought to light when Christopher Hofmann, a California resident, discovered his personal information on the dark web through his identity theft protection service. The hackers initially attempted to sell the data for $3.5 million, but it was later leaked for free on a popular hacking forum, making the information accessible to cybercriminals around the world.
How to Check If Your Data Was Compromised
With so much personal information exposed, it’s crucial to determine if your data was affected. Two online tools have been created for this purpose:
- NPD.pentester.com: This site allows you to check if your data was compromised by entering your first name, last name, state, and birth year.
- NPDBreach.com: Here, you can search for your information using your full name, zip code, SSN, or phone number to see if you’re part of the breach.
Protecting Your Personal Information
If your data was compromised, it’s essential to take immediate steps to protect yourself from identity theft:
- Freeze Your Credit: Contact the three major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion—to place a freeze on your credit report. This will prevent anyone from opening new accounts in your name.
- Enable Fraud Alerts: Set up fraud alerts with the credit bureaus to notify you if anyone attempts to use your information.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Ensure that all your accounts are secured with complex passwords, and use a password manager to keep track of them.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Wherever possible, enable 2FA to add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts for any suspicious activity.
Moving Forward
The NPD data breach serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in our digital world. While the breach is under investigation and law enforcement is involved, it’s essential for individuals to take proactive steps to secure their personal information. Stay vigilant, monitor your accounts, and utilize the available tools to protect yourself from the long-term effects of this massive data leak.