If your information shows up in a dark web scan, don’t panic — it happens to millions of people. What matters most is taking quick, smart steps to reduce your risk and protect your accounts going forward.
By using Lifeguard, you are already ahead of the pack! Here are some additional steps to consider.
🔐 1. Change Your Password Immediately
If the breach includes a password, change it right away — even if you haven’t noticed anything unusual.
Create a new, unique password that you haven’t used anywhere else.
The best passwords are long passphrases made from random, unrelated words (e.g., Maple$Coffee!Rocket).
Include symbols and numbers for extra strength.
Avoid using names, birthdays, or street addresses — these are easy for attackers to guess.
♻️ 2. Update Other Accounts Using the Same Password
If you’ve reused that password on other websites, change those too.
Reusing passwords can turn one data breach into a chain reaction — attackers often test stolen credentials on popular platforms like Google, Amazon, and banking apps.
🧱 3. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Whenever possible, enable 2FA for your accounts.
This adds a second verification step (like a text message or authentication app) that makes it much harder for someone to break in, even if they have your password.
🕵️ 4. Watch for Suspicious Activity
Keep an eye on your:
Email inbox (look for password reset notices you didn’t request)
Bank and credit card statements
Login alerts from unfamiliar devices
If you see suspicious logins, change your password immediately and log out of all active sessions on that service.
🧠 5. Use a Password Manager
A password manager securely stores your login details, helping you:
Create strong, unique passwords for every account
Automatically fill them in safely
Avoid reusing the same passwords
This way, you only need to remember one master password.
🧭 6. Use a VPN on Public or Shared Networks
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps protect your data from being intercepted while browsing or using Wi-Fi in public places.
It also masks your IP address, adding a layer of privacy online.
(Note: A VPN can’t fix a breach that’s already happened, but it helps protect your activity and identity going forward.)
📱 7. Avoid Oversharing Personal Info
Be cautious when filling out forms that ask for unnecessary data like:
Your phone number
ZIP code
Birthdate
If a service doesn’t require it, skip it.
💳 8. Consider Credit and Identity Monitoring
If the exposed data includes financial or identity information (e.g., SSN, credit card, or government ID):
Place a fraud alert with one of the three credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion).
Check your credit report for unfamiliar accounts.
Consider freezing your credit to block new lines of credit in your name.
⚠️ What Not to Do
❌ Don’t ignore the alert — even “old” data can still be used in phishing attacks.
❌ Don’t reuse your compromised password anywhere else.
❌ Don’t click links in “scary” breach emails unless you trust the sender — scammers often impersonate breach notifications.
🧩 Summary
Your next steps:
Change any exposed passwords.
Turn on 2FA wherever possible.
Watch for unusual activity.
Be cautious with personal info going forward.
Lifeguard will continue to monitor for dark web leaks and alert you if we detect new exposures.
If you have questions or want help securing specific accounts, contact [email protected].