Personal data stolen in N.S. Power breach? Here’s how to protect yourself from fraud

A recent cyber attack on Nova Scotia Power has left over 280,000 customers vulnerable to potential identity fraud. The unauthorized third party behind the attack stole sensitive information such as names, phone numbers, email addresses, mailing addresses, dates of birth, account histories, driver’s license numbers, social insurance numbers, and bank account numbers. This breach has raised concerns about the security of personal data and the risk of identity theft for those affected.

In light of this incident, Jeff Horncastle, a client and communications outreach officer with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and the RCMP, has provided valuable insights on how customers can protect themselves from identity fraud. Horncastle emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to safeguard personal information and prevent fraudulent activities.

One key recommendation is to contact both Equifax and TransUnion to place a fraud alert on your credit file. This alert serves as an extra layer of protection, notifying you if anyone tries to apply for credit using your information. Horncastle also advises customers to inform their financial institutions about the breach and consider enabling multi-factor authentication for added security.

Furthermore, customers are urged to change their email passwords and use unique passwords for each online account to minimize the risk of unauthorized access. Additionally, contacting the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is recommended to prevent false income tax filings or benefit fraud.

In the event that customers fall victim to identity fraud, Horncastle highlights the importance of having fraud alerts in place with credit agencies. While victims are typically not held responsible for fraudulent accounts, dealing with the aftermath of identity theft can be a major inconvenience. By staying vigilant and taking precautionary measures, individuals can protect themselves from the potential repercussions of data breaches.

When it comes to electronic transactions and bill payments, using strong passwords and following security protocols recommended by financial institutions can help mitigate risks. It is crucial for customers to stay informed and proactive in safeguarding their personal information in the wake of cyber attacks.

For more tips on preventing identity fraud, customers can visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s website. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, individuals can reduce their vulnerability to identity theft and protect their financial well-being.