Checklist to Safeguard Against a Data Breach

1. Determine What Information Was Compromised:

  • Verify the legitimacy of any breach notification emails.
  • Check credit monitoring software for breach alerts.
  • Review the company’s recent press releases on their official website.

2. Secure Your Accounts:

  • Change passwords and PINS immediately for all compromised accounts.
  • Use a password manager to generate new strong, randomized passwords for all accounts with the compromised password.
  • Enroll in two-factor authentication for added security.

3. Actively Monitor and Lock Down Your Credit File:

  • Create accounts with major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax).
  • Check your credit report every three months.
  • Verify balances in retirement accounts and special needs trusts.
  • Lock your credit and Social Security number to prevent unauthorized access.

4. Check for Any Suspicious Behavior on Your Devices

  • Be vigilant about unusual activity within your online accounts and devices.
  • Strengthen the integrity of your passwords, do not reuse passwords across multiple accounts, and add two-step verification.

6 Meridian is a group comprised of investment professionals registered with Hightower Advisors, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser. Registration as an investment advisor does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Some investment professionals may also be registered with Hightower Securities, LLC, member FINRA and SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Hightower Advisors, LLC. Securities are offered through Hightower Securities, LLC. All information referenced herein is from sources believed to be reliable. 6 Meridian and Hightower Advisors, LLC have not independently verified the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this document. 6 Meridian and Hightower Advisors, LLC or any of its affiliates make no representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the information or for statements or errors or omissions, or results obtained from the use of this information.
6 Meridian and Hightower Advisors, LLC or any of its affiliates assume no liability for any action made or
taken in reliance on or relating in any way to the information. This document and the materials contained herein were created for informational purposes only; the opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s), and do not represent those of Hightower Advisors, LLC or any of its affiliates. 6 Meridian and Hightower Advisors, LLC or any of its affiliates do not provide tax or legal advice. This material was not intended or written to be used or presented to any entity as tax or legal advice. Clients are urged to consult their tax and/or legal advisor for related questions.