Data breaches are becoming increasingly common across the United States, leaving both individuals and organizations vulnerable. In February, the Minnetonka-based UnitedHealth Group breach was so significant that, according to the Minnesota Attorney General’s office, it resulted in millions of Minnesotan’s “health and personal data being leaked onto the dark web — a hidden portion of the Internet where cybercriminals buy, sell, and track personal information.” Other recent hacks in 2024 have targeted companies like AT&T, Ticketmaster, and Marriott International, as well as regional organizations such as the Minnesota Department of Human Services, the Minnesota Department of Education, Minneapolis-based MNGI Digestive Health, and social service programs in 18 counties across Minnesota.
With the volume of information being stolen, John Ebert, Ed.D., says it can be difficult to understand how to feel or respond — or what to do if your information is compromised.
So, how do data breaches occur? What is the impact on businesses and people, and what can we do to protect our information?
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