Data breach notifications hit record highs last year, with 80% of Americans receiving at least one letter. The Identity Theft Resource Center says don't just toss these notices – they often include free identity protection services.
Experts recommend three key steps: freeze your credit (the most effective protection), change passwords on affected accounts, and consider adopting passkeys for future security. Parents should also freeze their children's credit.
The recent Conduent breach exemplifies delayed notifications – while disclosed in April, some of the 25 million affected people are just now receiving letters. Companies compromised names, Social Security numbers, and medical information, though no misuse has been detected yet.
Source: CBS News Philadelphia