The National Public Data Breach & How Billions Were Exposed

In one of the most devastating data breaches in history, the National Public Data breach has exposed the private information of nearly 2.9+ billion individuals, affecting almost every American. This catastrophic incident has left millions vulnerable to identity theft, fraud, and financial crimes.

The breach, which surfaced in April 2024, revealed highly sensitive information, including:

• Full names

• Social Security numbers

• Home addresses spanning decades

• Information about relatives, some deceased for over 20 years

Even more concerning, the affected company, National Public Data, failed to alert victims or take immediate steps to protect the exposed individuals.

This article will break down how this breach happened, who is responsible, the dangers posed by this leak, and—most importantly—how you can protect yourself from the fallout of this massive cybersecurity disaster.

How Did the Breach Happen?

The Role of National Public Data

National Public Data is a Florida-based background check company that stores billions of records on individuals for use in employment verification, identity checks, and other screenings. Companies like this gather immense amounts of sensitive data, but without proper security, they become goldmines for hackers.

The Hackers: Who is USDoD?

A notorious hacking group known as "USDoD" claimed responsibility for the breach.

• The hackers reportedly gained access to the company's unsecured database and exfiltrated over 277.1GB of data.

• They then leaked this data onto the dark web, making it available for cybercriminals to exploit.

• Reports suggest the database was being sold for $3.5 million, making this one of the largest black-market data sales ever.

National Public Data’s Silence and Legal Fallout

Despite the massive scope of the attack, National Public Data has not issued public statements or notified affected individuals. This lack of transparency has led to multiple class-action lawsuits, accusing the company of gross negligence in protecting sensitive consumer information.

The Risks: What Happens When Your Data Is Exposed?

If your Social Security number, address, and personal history are leaked online, you are at risk for a variety of crimes. Here’s what could happen:

1. Identity Theft

With a stolen Social Security number, cybercriminals can:

• Open fraudulent credit cards and loans

• File fake tax returns to steal refunds

• Commit identity fraud in your name

2. Financial Fraud

Hackers can steal your banking information and withdraw money or make unauthorized transactions.

3. Targeted Scams and Phishing Attacks

With your full name, address, and family details, scammers can craft highly convincing phishing emails pretending to be banks, government agencies, or even your relatives.

4. Stolen Identities on the Dark Web

Your personal information may already be for sale on illegal marketplaces. Criminals purchase bulk data leaks to create fake identities or commit credit card fraud.

How to Protect Yourself After This Data Breach

Even if you haven’t noticed suspicious activity yet, taking action now can prevent financial loss and identity theft. Here are key steps to protect yourself:

1. Check If Your Information Was Leaked

• Use tools like HaveIBeenPwned or ID monitoring services to check if your Social Security number or email was part of a data breach.

• If you suspect your SSN was compromised, request a credit report to look for suspicious activity.

2. Freeze Your Credit Immediately

• Contact the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) to freeze your credit.

• This prevents fraudsters from opening new accounts in your name.

3. Monitor Your Financial Accounts

• Enable fraud alerts with your bank and credit card providers.

• Set up notifications for suspicious transactions.

4. Beware of Phishing Scams

• Hackers will likely target victims with scam emails.

• Never click links in suspicious emails, even if they appear to be from your bank or government agencies.

5. Use a Secure VPN for Online Activity

• A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for hackers to steal your data over public Wi-Fi.

• Services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN can add an extra layer of security.

6. File an Identity Theft Report if Needed

• If you suspect identity theft, visit the FTC’s IdentityTheft.gov to file an official report.

• This can help dispute fraudulent transactions and recover lost funds.

Why This Breach is a Wake-Up Call for Everyone

The National Public Data breach is a chilling reminder that companies handling vast amounts of personal data need stronger security measures. However, history has shown that businesses often fail to protect consumer data until it’s too late.

This breach has affected almost every American, meaning that no one is truly safe from cyber threats. Moving forward, we must:

• Advocate for stronger data protection laws to hold companies accountable.

• Adopt better personal cybersecurity habits to stay ahead of cybercriminals.

• Demand transparency from companies that store personal information.

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Online Security

With 2.9 billion records leaked, the National Public Data breach is one of the largest cybersecurity disasters in history. If your data was compromised, don’t wait until it’s too late to take action.

🔹 Check if your information was leaked.

🔹 Freeze your credit.

🔹 Monitor your financial accounts.

🔹 Stay cautious of phishing scams.

🔹 Use a VPN for safe browsing.

Protect Yourself with NordVPN

A VPN is one of the best tools to keep your online activity private and secure. With a trusted service like NordVPN, you can: ✅ Encrypt your data to prevent hackers from intercepting your sensitive information. ✅ Stay anonymous online by masking your IP address. ✅ Protect yourself on public Wi-Fi and prevent cybercriminals from spying on your browsing habits.

Don’t leave your online security to chance—secure your data today with NordVPN and browse the internet safely.