Marriott data violation: What to do if you were affected
For 327 million people, Marriott said contains the exposed the information name, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, passport number and date of birth. For millions of others, credit card numbers and card expiry dates were potentially threatened. This type of information can be used to steal your identity and open bank accounts, credit cards or loans in your name.
It is the second largest corporate data breach in history, behind one that involves Yahoo, who said last year that 3 billion accounts among several brands were compromised.
Meanwhile, here's what you can do to protect yourself:
1[ads1]. Change your password
Marriott says that guests should change their passwords on a regular basis and select those who are not easily guessed . For example, instead of a common phrase, choose a combination of four or more non-related words with numbers, characters, and a lowercase case.
You should also have different passwords for all the services you use.
"If you change your password, you will only add a roadblock to get a potential hacker coming into your system," said Aaron Brantly, an expert on cyber security at Virginia Tech.
2. Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity
Marriott recommends that customers keep an eye on their Starwood Preferred Guest account for any suspicious activity. Members should also check their bank, pension and broker accounts, as well as credit card information to check for unauthorized transactions.
3. Open your own credit card for online transactions
Yair Levy, a cybersecurity and information system expert at Nova Southeast University, recommends that you have a credit card dedicated to online shopping. This makes it easier to track transactions and detect fraudulent activity.
If your credit card is compromised, you do not need to update automatic payments for things like bills.
4. Be careful
Experts carefully that internet users should be careful about "phishing" attempts by bad actors who want to steal your data, including through false email addresses, fake links and fake websites. On his information site about hack, Marriott members said the company would not ask you to give your password by phone or email.
