How To React To The Anthem Breach

Anthem recently joined the growing list of businesses hit by a major breach. Honestly, with the threat landscape developing the way it is, I’m surprised it took this long for another attack like this to surface.

I've already been asked by a lot of friends and colleagues about how best to protect your personal information online, so I thoguht I would pass along my standard advice. As I hope is clear, I'm sharing my own personal opinions and observations, not claiming to be a financial or legal advisor. But I'm realizing that not enough people know to take these important steps:

1. Use a password safe. 1Password and LastPass are good providers of features and protection that will add security to your information when the service you used is compromised.
2. Place a credit freeze on all three reporting agencies. This will make sure nothing happens—even viewing your credit info—without your consent.
3. Never use an ATM card outside of an ATM. If money is lost from ATM accounts, you lack the leverage you have with credit card companies. Rather than just removing fraudulent charges, you will be left arguing over cash amounts with your bank.
4. Run your credit report every year. It’s easier than you think to miss suspicious charges throughout the year. Make sure these are reviewed and understood thoroughly.
5. Request copies of your health records on a yearly basis. After breaches like this, your medical details can be mixed up with someone else’s. Incorrect information in your record can lead to incorrect emergency treatment that can be harmful or fatal.

I’ve said before that security advisors sometimes sound like we’re wearing tinfoil hats. But a little bit of care will go a very long way if your accounts are compromised. All signs point to this being a very ugly year for consumer data. Keep yours safe.

As always, if you have any concerns about your company's security posture we’re available to assist.
Contact us.