Audi data breach

What happened

In August 2019, Audi USA suffered a data breach after a vendor left data unsecured and exposed on the internet. The data contained 2.7M unique email addresses along with names, phone numbers, physical addresses and vehicle information including VIN. In a disclosure statement from Audi, they also advised some customers had driver's licenses, dates of birth, social security numbers and other personal information exposed.

What data leaked

• Dates of birth
• Driver's licenses
• Email addresses
• Names
• Phone numbers
• Physical addresses
• Social security numbers
• Vehicle details

What to do if you had an account

1. Turn on two-step sign-in. Enable two-factor authentication where the service offers it, preferably with an authenticator app or a passkey. A leaked password alone is then not enough to get in.
2. Expect targeted phishing. Leaked contact details are used to write convincing fake messages that mention the breached company or your real name. Do not click links in unexpected emails or texts about this account; go to the site by typing its address.
3. Watch for scam calls and SIM swaps. Be suspicious of calls and texts that claim to be from your bank or a courier. Ask your mobile operator for a port-out or SIM-change PIN if it offers one.
4. Guard against identity fraud. Identity documents and dates of birth cannot be changed like a password. Consider a credit freeze or fraud alert where your country offers one, and be wary of anyone who 'verifies' you using those details.

Check your email at haveibeenpwned.com

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