What is a data breach?

A data breach occurs when a hacker gains access to the database of a service or company which contains users’ private information. This information can range from usernames and passwords to social security numbers, addresses and even payment details. These lists are then usually sold online to criminal groups who seek to use this information for profit.

How can a data breach affect me?

The most serious consequences to you can be when very sensitive information like usernames, passwords or social security numbers are leaked. Be sure to never use the same password for multiple services – if one service you use is breached, you should consider all the accounts using the same password as compromised.

What is identity theft?

Identity theft, specifically online identity theft, involves someone posing as you using your private information, usually for profit. Criminals usually obtain this data either by physical theft, accessing public information, or through data breaches.
The best way to protect your identity online is to secure your private information by using strong passwords and being careful what you share across different services.

How do I know if my password has been hacked?

When passwords are “hacked”, it usually means the service you use the password in becomes the victim of a data breach, leaving your password and possibly other personal information exposed. In many cases, users can go for years before knowing that their password has been made public.

What makes a strong password?

A strong password is a long one because they are more difficult to guess. Having a minimum of 8 characters is a good start, but even more important is to use a unique password for each service. If a service is the victim of a data breach and your password is leaked, the problem becomes much bigger if you use the same email address and password combination to log into multiple services.

Protect your identity online

With F-Secure ID Protection

F‑Secure ID PROTECTION helps you protect your personal information, such as usernames, passwords and credit card numbers by alerting you of your breached online services and by giving you specific instructions on how to recover from the incident with minimum damage.

The app also protects your identity by offering a secure storage for all your passwords and by acting as an easy-to-use password manager.

Complete the form to get in touch with our consultants about F-Secure ID Protection