When a company’s security is compromised, your personal information can be exposed, leaving you vulnerable to identity theft and other forms of fraud. However, opportunistic scammers are using data breaches to inflict further harm by offering fake “solutions” and “protection” services.
What Is the Data Breach Remedy Scam?
This scam preys on people who have been notified of a data breach affecting their personal information. Scammers pose as representatives from government agencies, credit bureaus, or cybersecurity firms offering to help victims protect their identity or recover from the breach. They may offer credit monitoring services, identity theft insurance, or assistance with changing passwords and account information. However, these services are often unnecessary, overpriced, or even nonexistent. In some cases, scammers may be trying to collect more personal information from victims to use for identity theft or other fraudulent purposes.
Example of the Scam
Natalie receives an email from a company claiming to be a cybersecurity firm specializing in data breach recovery. The email warns her that her personal information is at risk and offers a “comprehensive identity protection plan” for a monthly fee. Worried about her identity being stolen, Natalie signs up for the plan but later discovers that the company is fake and has made unauthorized charges to her credit card.
Tips for Protecting Yourself
- Be skeptical of unsolicited offers. Don’t automatically trust unsolicited offers for data breach solutions or identity theft protection services, especially if they come via phone, email, or text.
- Don’t click on suspicious links. Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments in emails or text messages from unknown senders, even if they claim to be related to a data breach. Instead, go directly to the official website of the affected company to get information about recommended actions.
- Verify the source. If you’re contacted by someone claiming to represent a government agency, credit bureau, or cybersecurity firm, verify their identity before providing any personal information.
- Consider protective measures. If you’re concerned about your identity being compromised, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit report. This can help prevent scammers from opening new accounts in your name.
If You’ve Been Scammed
- Contact us. If your account information has been compromised or if you believe you’ve mistakenly paid a scammer, let us know.
- Report the scam to the FTC. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.FTC.gov and your local law enforcement agency.
- Report the scam to your state attorney general. You can find their contact information at naag.org.
- Dispute fraudulent charges. Contact your credit card company to dispute any unauthorized charges resulting from the scam. Request a refund and consider closing the affected account if necessary.
- Monitor your accounts. Check your credit report and bank statements for any signs of unauthorized activity. Report any suspicious transactions or new accounts opened in your name.
- Remain vigilant: Scammers may continue to target you, so be cautious of any unsolicited offers for identity protection or data breach solutions.
Contact us to learn more about safeguarding your financial information and securing your accounts. Our experts are here to help.
