A new cyberattack has made headlines, compromising personal information from hundreds of thousands of legal assistance applicants in the UK and Wales.

Following the recent cyber incidents that severely impacted Marks & Spencer and co-ops, reminders are circulating about the increased risk of suspicious activities.

If you’re concerned that your data may have been exposed, here are some tips to help safeguard yourself.

Update Your Password – Ensure It’s Strong

Always ensure you use a strong password and avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts.

If you’ve interacted with a company or organization that has suffered a cyberattack, promptly change the password for that particular website or app.

“Consider using a password manager to create and securely store strong, unique passwords,” suggests the online security firm Nordvpn.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your critical accounts by requiring a code sent via text or email for access. Be sure to enable 2FA on all services that offer it.

Exercise Caution with Unsolicited Emails, Calls, and Messages

Avoid clicking on links or attachments in unsolicited emails, texts, or social media messages, as they may lead to phishing sites or contain malware designed to steal your identity.

Phishing scams often leverage current events, like cyberattacks, to lure unsuspecting customers into providing sensitive information.

Scammers might possess personal details they obtained through breaches, making their communications seem more credible.

If someone claims to represent a company you use, verify their identity by ignoring their contact and checking official contact details instead.

Monitor Your Credit Report

In case your personal data gets compromised, regularly monitoring your credit report is crucial to detect any fraudulent attempts to create loans or acquire other products in your name. Several Credit Reference Institutions offer access, both free and paid.

We recommend checking your credit report periodically. You can access your credit data through the Credit Committee.

Credit Karma and Clear Score both provide free access to your credit report.

Be vigilant for signs of identity theft, such as being denied financial products unexpectedly or not receiving bank statements despite having a good credit rating. Additionally, receiving collection letters for debts you didn’t incur or items on your bank statement that you didn’t buy are clear red flags.

Most financial fraud is said to begin on social media and technology platforms. Remain cautious, as scammers may have enough information to impersonate someone you know.

The rise of “Hi Mom” scams, where criminals pretend to be relatives asking for urgent financial assistance via messaging apps like WhatsApp, has surged in recent years.

Even under pressure, take your time to verify the identity of anyone requesting money, ensuring you’re truly communicating with your loved ones.

Safeguard Your Devices

Keep your laptops and devices updated by ensuring they receive the latest software and security patches.

Only use official app stores and software update services for your downloads.