In the past couple of years, an increasing number of companies have reported large-scale data hacks, which have resulted in customers private information ending up in the wrong hands.

Medibank, Optus and more recently Ticketmaster and Ticketek are among the businesses that have had their systems compromised and personal customer details exposed on the dark web.

For customers, details leaked can range from names, addresses and phone numbers to passwords, passport, licence and Medicare card numbers.

When this private information is exposed, hackers can use the information for a range of purposes, including to steal money or use peoples’ identities to apply for loans, credit cards or fake identity documents.

If you think your details may have been hacked, there are a few steps you may wish to take to try and prevent further damage.

1. Find out more from the organisation

You may have heard about the cyber attack from the affected organisation or through the media. Consider finding out as much as possible about which details have been leaked, as this will help to determine what action you need to take.

Cyber.gov.au has a tool that can help: Have I been hacked?

2. Change your passwords

If your password has been exposed – or you’re just worried it may have – it may be a good idea to pick something new. Cyber security experts recommend using a range of different characters, numbers and symbols and making your password or passphrase long.

Also, consider two factor authentication, which adds another layer of security even if someone has your password.

3. Speak to your bank

If you think your financial details have been leaked, get in touch with your bank sooner rather than later. They can freeze your accounts or re-issue new cards to try and stop hackers from getting your money.

4. Keep an eye out for unusual activity

In the weeks and months after a data breach, hackers may try to get into your bank account, government accounts, emails or social media. Keep an eye out for anything unusual, such as transactions you didn’t authorise yourself.

5. Consider making a report

If you feel comfortable, you can report cyber-crime to the government’s cyber agency (here) or to the police.

Source: cyber.gov.au.

Like every article on this website, this is not personal financial advice.