Protect Your Business: 8 Steps to Take After a Data Breach

Few things feel more unsettling than receiving a data breach notification. Whether it’s from a bank, an e-commerce platform, or even a government agency, it can leave you feeling powerless. These breaches often expose sensitive details like addresses, National Insurance numbers, or credit card information.

50% of businesses and around a 32% of charities in the UK report having experienced some form of cyber security breach or attack in the last 12 months. If your business experiences a cyber-attack, you can take immediate steps to mitigate the damage and protect yourself. Here are the eight key actions to take when your data has been compromised.

1. Change Your Passwords Immediately

Your first priority should be updating your passwords. Start with the service that notified you of the breach, then update passwords for any other accounts using the same credentials.

Using unique passwords for each login is crucial to prevent hackers from accessing multiple accounts. A password manager can help you create and store strong, unique passwords while remembering only one master password.

Even if you don’t think a certain service has been breached, change your credentials anyway. Prioritise email and bank accounts, as these are usually the first targets in a cyber-attack.

2. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts. Even if hackers have your password, MFA can stop them from gaining access.

Common MFA methods include:

• Text message codes

• Authentication apps (e.g., Google Authenticator)

• Security keys - The most secure option

Enable MFA on the breached account and all other accounts where it’s available.

3. Monitor Your Bank Accounts

If the breach involved payment details, keep a close eye on your bank accounts for any unauthorised transactions.

Steps to Take:

• Notify your bank about the breach.

• Request a replacement card if your payment information was exposed.

• Regularly review your statements for suspicious activity.

Proactively reporting the breach to your bank can also protect you from being held liable for fraudulent charges.

4. Freeze Your Credit

Hackers often sell personal information like addresses and birth dates, which can be used to open lines of credit in your name.

To protect yourself, contact the three main credit agencies to freeze your credit:

• Equifax

• Experian

• TransUnion

A credit freeze blocks anyone from applying for credit in your name without your consent. Remember, as a director, your information can be exploited by criminals along with public information published on Companies House to apply for financial services on-behalf of your business.

5. Carefully Review the Breach Notification

Take the time to fully understand the breach and how it might affect you. Look for details such as:

• What data was exposed (e.g., passwords, credit card numbers).

• Steps the company is taking to help, like offering free credit monitoring.

• Instructions to secure your account or monitor for risks.

Check the company’s website regularly for updates, as the scope of the breach may evolve over time.

6. Strengthen Your Cybersecurity Protections

Ensure your devices and network are well-protected. Here are a few tools to bolster your cybersecurity:

• Antivirus/anti-malware software to detect and remove threats.

• DNS filtering to block malicious websites.

• Email spam filters to catch phishing attempts.

For added protection, consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) or SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) to encrypt your internet traffic - especially when connected to public Wi-Fi.

7. Watch Out for Phishing Scams

Breached email addresses are often targeted in phishing scams. These scams can be highly convincing, especially with hackers using AI to personalise attacks.

Follow these tips to avoid phishing traps:

• Inspect Links: Hover over links to see their true destination.

• Go Directly to Websites: Avoid clicking on links in emails or SMS messages.

• Verify Senders: Be cautious of emails or texts from unknown senders.

• Stay Alert on Social Media: Phishing attempts also happen on social platforms.

When in doubt, confirm any communication through official sources.

8. Keep All Software and Systems Updated

Hackers exploit unpatched vulnerabilities in software, devices, and apps. Keeping everything up to date is one of the best ways to prevent cyberattacks.

Update These Regularly:

• Operating systems on all devices.

• Software and applications.

• Firmware for routers, printers, and IoT devices.

Set updates to install automatically where possible. This ensures your systems stay protected without relying on manual checks.

Managed Security Services You Can Count On

Staying safe online requires vigilance and the right tools. If you’re unsure about your device security or need help implementing best practices, we’re here to help.

At Pulse4, we provide tailored managed security solutions to keep your personal and business data safe. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take control of your cybersecurity.

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