Oh, Great! Another Massive Data Breach — Because 2023 Wasn't Bad Enough

In yet another "shocking" turn of events, National Public Data just confirmed that they've had a massive data breach. 2.9 billion records — including names, addresses, and Social Security numbers — are potentially floating around in the digital ether. But hey, who's counting, right?

Don't Be Fooled by Those "Helpful" Websites

Look, we know you're concerned about your privacy. But don’t offer up your Social Security numbers to websites just because they promise to tell you if you’re a victim. Remember those delightful scams where someone calls pretending to be from the FBI? This is pretty much the online equivalent.

Why Shouldn't You Give Over Your Social Security Number?

Banks, schools, and new employers need your Social Security number. We get it. But don't hand it over to any random person, business, or website. Even James E. Lee, the COO at the Identity Theft Resource Center, says you shouldn't. Here’s what fraudsters can do with it, according to AARP:

• Open credit accounts in your name
• File for unemployment insurance
• Steal your benefits

Do It Right: Use Reputable Sites

Some reputable websites allow you to check if your data was compromised without asking for your Social Security number. Check out these sites:

• NPD.pentester.com — Just enter your first name, last name, state, and birth year.
• NPDBreach.com — Use your full name and zip code, SSN, or phone number.

Credit Reports: Your First Line of Defense

Want to see if your identity has been compromised? Check your credit reports for any signs of fraud, as recommended by the University of Wisconsin-Madison. You can request one free credit report each year from:

• Equifax
• Experian
• TransUnion

If you spot anything suspicious, you can place a credit freeze to protect yourself from further identity theft, courtesy of the Federal Trade Commission.

Stay safe out there, folks. And maybe, just maybe, we'll get through this data breach without sharing our Social Security numbers with the wrong people.

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. She has covered various topics, from local businesses and government in her hometown, Miami, to tech and pop culture. You can connect with her on LinkedIn or follow her on X, formerly Twitter , Instagram and TikTok : @juliamariegz