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Navigating the National Public Data Breach: Steps to Safeguard Your Identity

This week, a significant data breach at National Public Data has come to light, raising concerns for many who have undergone background checks or used similar services. National Public Data, an organization that compiled and managed information for background checks, has unfortunately been compromised. While the specifics of where this data was used may be unclear, many of us have likely had background checks conducted at some point, making this breach a pertinent issue.

At Wise Business Solutions, we understand the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with such incidents. To help you navigate this situation, we’ve compiled a list of steps that our team and their families have taken to protect their identities. These actions are crucial for mitigating the risks associated with a data breach.

1. Monitor Your Credit Reports: Begin by creating free accounts with all three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. While navigating these sites can be challenging, it’s essential to ensure you only use the free services they offer. Once logged in:

• Obtain your free credit report from each bureau.
• Review and correct any inaccuracies.
• Set up a fraud alert, which provides a temporary safeguard for one year.
• Apply a credit freeze to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name. Remember to unfreeze your credit when applying for new credit.

2. Secure Your Federal Tax Returns: Apply for an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) with the IRS. This PIN is crucial because it prevents anyone from filing a federal tax return in your name without the correct PIN. The application process involves identity verification, which can be done either in person or via phone.

3. Notify Your Financial Institutions: Contact your banks to inform them of the potential identity theft. This proactive step ensures that your bank is aware of the situation and can monitor your accounts for any unusual activity.

4. Consider Identity Theft Protection Services: You can opt for an added layer of security provided by LifeLock. While it’s not the cheapest option, it has proven invaluable by alerting people to recent instances of identity exposure. In our view, the cost is worth the peace of mind it provides.

It’s disheartening to realize the level of vigilance required in today’s digital age, but staying informed and proactive is essential.

In these uncertain times, protecting your identity and maintaining cyber safety is more important than ever. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at Wise Business Solutions. Together, we can navigate these challenges and keep your personal information secure.