A recent report revealed that over 16 billion login and password credentials have been exposed online. It was touted to be the ‘largest data breach in history’, with leaked information datasets from platforms like Apple, Facebook, Google, GitHub, Telegram, and various government services. If you are wondering whether your password and login details have been compromised, here are some simple ways in which you can find out.
1. Use Password Checking Tools
Have I Been Pwned is a great website that allows users to enter their email ID and check if they have been included in a data breach in the past. The website is very easy to use and shares data on the amount of data breaches, which data breaches, and even the timeline of those leaks.
2. Google Passwords Checkup
This tool is offered by Google and it gives you a lowdown on all the passwords that have been compromised or are very weak. It tells you exactly which website or apps password has been compromised and even shares a quick link to change it immediately.
These two tools are more than enough to tell you the impact on your logins and passwords on varied websites and app. Some other red signals to look at are:
3. Unusual Login/Logout Activity
If you see sudden logging out of accounts without any indication, then this could hint at a breach. Furthermore, if your password suddenly doesn’t work, or if you get unusual login notifications on email, then this is also an indicator of a breach. Some other major red flags include unusual transactions through bank accounts, changes to private account settings, or even some strange sent messages that you don’t recognize.
Data breaches have become extremely common in recent times, and following these timely safety practices are imperative:
Change passwords frequently: Periodic changing of passwords is absolutely essential. Review all of your passwords every quarter and change them to strong ones that include all of the necessary elements to strengthen security. In the event of a data breach, change your password immediately.
Enable 2FA authentication: Enable two-factor authentication wherever available for that extra layer of security.
Report and block: Report all fishy links and websites to relevant authorities and block all unknown contacts that send unknown links to your device.
