Uber drivers suffer data leak in a third-party cyberattack
In a recent development, Uber has experienced a third-party breach that may have affected the personal data of its drivers, particularly those in New Jersey. The outside legal counsel involved in the breach is Genova Burns LLC.
The breach occurred in March, and Genova Burns is taking additional steps to improve security and better protect against similar incidents in the future. However, the company is not currently aware of any actual or attempted misuse of the information.
Uber drivers in New Jersey have been notified that their social security number and/or tax identification number may have been potentially compromised. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of cybersecurity, particularly for companies handling personal data. All companies should review and strengthen their cybersecurity protocols regularly.
Individuals can protect their personal information in the event of a third-party breach like this one by taking several proactive steps. Firstly, use strong, complex passwords managed through a password manager and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts. Keeping devices and software updated regularly is also crucial to fix security vulnerabilities.
Avoiding phishing scams by not clicking on unknown or suspicious links is another essential practice. Regularly backing up important data on external drives can help recover data in case of a breach. If a breach is suspected or confirmed, individuals should immediately change affected passwords, notify their bank, and consider freezing their credit reports with major credit bureaus to prevent fraudulent new accounts or loans.
Monitoring bank accounts closely for unauthorized transactions and reviewing credit reports regularly help in early fraud detection. Signing up for identity theft protection services can also provide monitoring and alerts.
Limiting the amount of personal information shared on social media by keeping profiles private or using false details when non-essential reduces exposure to identity thieves. Utilizing antivirus software and firewall protections on personal devices adds an extra security layer.
In light of this incident, Uber is offering complimentary credit monitoring and identity protection services to impacted drivers. Affected drivers and individuals should remain vigilant and proactively protect their personal information.
In summary, individuals should use strong, unique passwords with a password manager and enable 2FA on all accounts, keep devices and software updated regularly, avoid phishing scams by not clicking unknown links or attachments, regularly back up data externally, change passwords immediately if data is compromised, notify banks, freeze credit reports, and monitor accounts closely post-breach, limit personal data exposure on social media, consider identity theft protection services, and use antivirus and firewall protections on devices. These combined practices significantly reduce the risk and impact of personal data exposure in third-party breaches.
In the wake of Uber's third-party breach, it highlights the necessity for companies to regularly review and strengthen their cybersecurity protocols, particularly those handling personal data (cybersecurity). An encyclopedia of best practices includes using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, keeping devices and software updated, and avoiding phishing scams (technology). Furthermore, individuals can safeguard their personal information by employing these protective measures, which significantly reduce the risk of identity theft in third-party breaches like this one.
