As specialists in data compensation claims and consumer actions, we often encounter people who are worried about what to do after a data leak.
It is always concerning to learn that your information has been exposed, and it can cause victims to panic and feel helpless. In this difficult situation, it is important to remember that there are actions to be taken in such situations: both to protect you from further security risks and to hold those who caused the breach accountable for their actions.
When data is leaked, there is often no telling who may have gained access to the private information, but there is always the risk that criminals may seek to misuse it for their own – usually financial – gain. The data exposure itself cannot be undone in some circumstances, but there are further precautions that can be taken in the aftermath of a leak to mitigate the risks to your data and your bank accounts.
What to do after a data leak – avoiding the risks of information misuse
When you are a victim of a data breach, the company involved will often issue a warning about the potential security risks, which you need to be aware of when considering what to do after a data leak. Cybercriminals are constantly trying to take advantage of exposed information, so it is important to be as vigilant as you possibly can.
Most importantly, in cases where your bank account or payment card details have been exposed, it is important to contact your bank and ask for advice. They should know how to assist to try to prevent any unauthorised transactions and block criminals from accessing your account.
However, there can still be financial risks, even where no financial information has been exposed. With contact details like phone numbers and email addresses, criminals may be able to target you with scams and fraud attempts, often trying to convince you that they are reputable companies. It is, therefore, important to be cautious of fraudulent communication. You should also make sure to report suspicious messages and communications, and avoid clicking on any links contained within emails and texts.
Taking action against those responsible
Data protection law can seem complicated to outsiders, and it may seem hard to know what to do after a data leak. However, your basic rights can be quite easy to understand: if an organisation failed to impose enough protections and security measures on your personal information, and it was exposed as a result, there may have been a breach of the law, and they could be liable to pay you compensation.
Through a data breach claim, you can take back control, recovering compensation for any distress you may have suffered. You may also be eligible to claim financial losses too. The impact on the company’s reputation and finances may also hopefully serve as sufficient punishment for any negligence when it comes to the law.
Claim data breach compensation now
Your Lawyers (t/a The Data Leak Lawyers) is a leading law firm in the area of data breach claims, having represented clients for privacy matters since 2014. Our expertise in this area of law allows us to tailor our advice to the specific needs of our clients, aiming to ensure that they receive a compensation pay-out that reflects the specific consequences faced.
Whether the incident was caused by a cyberattack or by human error, data leak compensation claims provide a vital route to justice for those affected. If you would like to receive free, no-obligation advice on what to do after a data leak, contact our expert team today or register for a call-back using the online form below.