How to check your data for leaks

[Mutt]

In recent years, there have been more and more cases of personal data leaks. Companies admit to incidents, and users find their data in the public domain. How do you know if your data has been compromised, and what should you do in such a case?

How to find out about a leak​

Companies often report data leaks through official channels: websites, newsletters, or the media. However, scammers can use information about a leak for phishing, sending panic messages. It is important to stay calm and check information from reliable sources.

There are services that let you check if your data has been compromised. For example, Have I Been Pwned lets you enter your email or phone number and see if it has been involved in known data breaches.

Assess the scale of the leak​

It is important to understand what data has been leaked. If it is only an email or phone number, the risks are minimal. However, if payment information, address or passport information has been leaked, the consequences may be more serious.

If the database is not publicly available but is sold on the darknet, assess the risks yourself based on what data you provided to the service.

What to do if your data has been leaked​

1. Change your passwords: especially if you use the same password on multiple services.
2. Enable two-factor authentication: This will add an extra layer of security.
3. Check your bank accounts: If your payment details have been leaked, watch for suspicious activity and block cards if necessary.
4. Be careful of phishing: scammers can use leaked data to deceive you. Do not click on suspicious links or provide personal information.
5. Notify the relevant authorities: in Russia, you can contact Roskomnadzor or law enforcement agencies.

How to protect yourself in the future​

• Use unique passwords: do not repeat the same password on different services.
• Update your software regularly to help patch vulnerabilities.
• Be careful with your data: do not provide unnecessary information.

A personal data leak is an unpleasant event, but the right actions will help minimize the damage. Be vigilant and take care of your information security.