Data Breach Survival Guide: Essential Actions to Protect Your Information

It's easy to become desensitized to headlines of data breaches when we've seen one breach closely trailing another for years. However, it's crucial not to let this steady stream of storylines lull you into a false sense of security. Rather than dismissing the latest breach as just another news story, arm yourself with action items should you realize you've been impacted.

How could a data breach affect you?

We're all familiar with the idea that data breaches can mean Personally Identifiable Information (PII) can be at risk of theft or sale, but some are less aware of the real impact and what to look for. Data breaches are a problem because they can result in identity theft and fraud.

In addition to stealing your first name, last name, address, email address, and social security number (SSN), what could be worse is if bad actors gain access to a combination of your PII data, allowing them to open fraudulent accounts in your name, apply for loans or credit cards, and even steal your tax refund.

What immediate steps should you take if you believe your data has been stolen or sold?

Let's suppose you have reason to believe your SSN has ended up in the wrong hands. Consider taking the following steps immediately:

• File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. This website is a great resource and will guide you through the process and provide a personalized recovery plan.
• It's also important to file a police report with your local law enforcement. Simply having a police report on file can serve as important documentation in the credit recovery process or in the case of tax fraud.
• Change passwords for all your online accounts, especially banking and credit cards.
• Check your credit reports for any unauthorized accounts or activity. Report suspicious transactions to the credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
• Consider placing a credit freeze to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
• While it may feel intimidating, it's important to contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to prevent potential tax-related fraud. The IRS has a phone number dedicated to assisting those who believe they are victims of identity theft involving their tax accounts: 1-800-908-4490.
• The IRS will likely request you complete IRS Form 14039. The Identity Theft Affidavit is used to report suspected identity theft to the IRS. You can submit it online via IdentityTheft.gov, or you can download the form from the IRS website and mail it along with your tax return to the address specified on the form.

What regular activities should you be doing to help keep your data safe?

While it's critical to act quickly once you believe your PII may have been compromised, it arguably more important to be proactive. Here are a few things to consider:

• Check your credit reports on a regular basis.
• Routinely change your passwords, using strong and unique characteristics.
• Choose to enable multifactor authentication on your accounts, whenever possible.
• Stay vigilant against phishing attacks. Always be on guard against emails, texts, or calls that attempt to solicit personal information, including those that may look or sound convincing and appear to be "from" your financial institution. Instead of clicking links or answering questions, contact First Mid's Customer Support Center directly or visit your local banking center. First Mid will never call or text a customer and ask them to provide details to confirm a purchase.

What red flags should you be watching for?

• Asking you to open a link.
• Using fear-inducing language.
• Including an attachment for you to click and open.
• Requesting PII, like PINs, passwords, or social security numbers.
• Pressuring you to log in or send money in some form.
• Using unusual email addresses, suspicious URLs, and misspelled words.
• Demanding you act urgently by using scare tactics.

How can First Mid help?

• Consider opening a checking account with an Identity Theft and Fraud Assistance program, such as First Mid's Premier Checking. This account includes identity fraud expense reimbursement coverage, theft resolution services, 3-in-1 monitoring of Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion credit files daily with automatic alerts for key changes to your accounts, and a free 3-in-1 updated credit report every 90 days or upon receipt of alert. Each alert includes an updated single bureau credit score. Registration and activation is required.
• Protect your account by downloading our First Mid mobile banking app and using the card controls to turn your debit card off or on as needed.
• Stay up to date with these First Mid resources:
  • Fraud Information - First Mid Bank & Trust
  • Consumer Alerts - First Mid Bank & Trust

By taking proactive steps and staying vigilant in the face of routine data breaches, you can help safeguard your digital identity. The consequences of your PII falling into the wrong hands can be long-lasting and far-reaching - including more than your finances, but also your reputation. Stay informed and stay alert. Your best defense is preparation.