**Massive Data Breach Exposes Personal Info of 5.6 Million People**

A massive data breach at credit check company 700Credit has left millions of people's personal information vulnerable to theft and exploitation. According to reports, the breach affects an estimated 5.6 million individuals, whose sensitive data was exposed due to a cyberattack.

700Credit, a Michigan-based company that provides credit checks and identity verification services for auto dealerships across the United States, revealed that its databases were compromised by an unauthorized actor between May and October 2022. The breach wasn't discovered until October 25, when it was finally reported to the authorities.

The exposed information includes Social Security numbers, addresses, names, dates of birth, and other personal details that could be used for identity theft or fraud. To mitigate the damage, 700Credit is sending letters by mail to individuals whose data was stolen in the breach, along with an offer for credit monitoring services.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel emphasized the importance of taking immediate action to protect one's information: "If you get a letter from 700Credit, don't ignore it. It's crucial that anyone affected by this data breach takes steps as soon as possible to safeguard their personal info."

**How Did This Happen?**

According to an investigation by CBTNews, a leading auto-dealership business-to-business publication, the hack was caused when an "integrated partner" failed to notify 700Credit about the vulnerability. The malicious actor exploited this weakness in 700Credit's validation process, gaining access to the company's systems.

As a result of the breach, 700Credit has taken measures to strengthen its API inspections and migrate to a more secure system. Additionally, the company has increased its cybersecurity insurance coverage.

**What Can You Do to Stay Safe?**

With this massive data breach on record, it's essential for individuals to take extra precautions to protect their personal info:

  • Update your passwords for all accounts involved in the breach
  • Change sensitive account credentials, such as email and financial accounts
  • Use a reputable password manager to generate and store secure passwords
  • Consider using an identity theft protection service to monitor your personal info
  • Be vigilant for phishing attempts and social engineering attacks

**Contacting 700Credit**

If you visited a dealership in the last year and believe 700Credit ran your credit check, you can reach out to the company's dedicated line at (866) 273-0345 with questions or concerns.

By staying informed and taking proactive steps to safeguard their personal info, individuals affected by this massive data breach can reduce the risk of identity theft and financial loss.