Sofia Spatola
Posted by Computer Solutions on October 14, 2024
As your trusted managed IT provider in Princeton, we understand the critical importance of safeguarding sensitive information in your veterinary practice. Recent news of a significant data breach at National Public Data has raised serious concerns regarding the security of personal information, affecting millions across the nation. Here’s what you need to know and how you can protect your practice.
What Happened?
In September 2024, National Public Data, a consumer data broker known for providing criminal records and background checks, confirmed that hackers had compromised the personal records of up to 2.9 billion individuals. This breach, believed to have originated in December 2023, involved unauthorized access by a third party.
The stolen data included names, email addresses, mailing addresses, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers. Even some deceased individuals’ information was included. While official notices indicated around 1.3 million records might have been breached, legal actions suggest the number could be much higher.
Why Is This a Concern for Your Practice?
Even though much of this information can be found online, the danger lies in its consolidation. Criminals can exploit this data to impersonate individuals, apply for credit in their names, or even access sensitive accounts. For veterinarians, this could mean an increased risk of identity theft or fraud targeting your practice or your clients.
Additionally, personal details such as past addresses and the last four digits of Social Security numbers often serve as security question answers, making it easier for hackers to bypass authentication measures.
How Can You Be Affected?
You might be thinking, “I’ve never used National Public Data.” However, many organizations—like those in your network—may have accessed this data. If your clients or employees have been affected, your practice could be at risk.
What Steps Should You Take to Safeguard Your Practice?
Step 1: Check if your data has been compromised. Utilize tools like https://npd.pentester.com/ to verify if any sensitive information related to your practice or clients has been exposed. If so, immediate action is crucial.
Step 2: Secure your credit and that of your employees. One effective measure is to freeze credit files. Contact the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian—to initiate this process. It’s quick, free, and helps prevent unauthorized accounts from being opened in your name or that of your staff.
Step 3: Remain vigilant against phishing scams. With the surge in data breaches, criminals may try to exploit this information through phishing calls, texts, and emails. Always verify the source before providing any information.
Let Computer Solutions Help You Protect Your Practice
At Computer Solutions, we specialize in comprehensive IT security solutions tailored specifically for veterinary practices. Our services include cybersecurity, data backup, and cloud solutions, supporting over a dozen web and premise Patient Information Management Systems (PIMS) for veterinarians.
We urge all businesses to invest in cybersecurity training for employees, as well as live security monitoring services, to ensure your practice is well protected against potential threats.
If you’d like to assess your current security posture or find out if your information has been compromised, perhaps you’d be interested in a Security Risk Assessment. This in-depth evaluation will help you identify vulnerabilities and create a robust plan to protect your practice.
To schedule a free discovery call, visit our website at www.welinku.com.
Protecting your practice and your clients’ information is our top priority. Don’t wait—take action today!
