The North Carolina-based commercial bank, Truist Bank, recently confirmed a significant data breach. In October 2023, malicious actors infiltrated the bank's network, resulting in sensitive employee information being compromised and sold on the dark web. In this blog post, we will discuss this breach in detail and will provide you with ways to protect yourself from this type of breach in future.

How Did the Breach Occur? 

The breach at Truist Bank occurred in October 2023 when a malicious actor known as Sp1d3r infiltrated the bank's network. The breach was revealed when Sp1d3r posted some of Truist’s data on an online hacking forum, claiming to sell data of 65,000 employees for $1 million. The compromised data allegedly included bank account numbers, balances, and source code for Truist Bank’s Interactive Voice Response (IVR) phone system used for transferring funds.

The bank quickly contained the cybersecurity incident, conducted a thorough investigation with the help of outside security consultants, and took additional measures to secure its systems. They also notified a small number of clients about the breach in the fall of 2023 and worked with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to protect the system and data. Despite these efforts, the stolen data was still offered for sale on the dark web by Sp1d3r. 

What was the Response of Truist Bank?

A Truist spokesperson stated, "In October 2023, we experienced a cybersecurity incident that was quickly contained. In partnership with outside security consultants, we conducted a thorough investigation, took additional measures to secure our systems, and notified a small number of clients last Fall.” 

The spokesperson also said the bank has notified additional clients based on new information unveiled by the investigation. Furthermore, the bank has reportedly found no evidence of fraud resulting from the incident.

Just so you know, this breach follows the devastating Snowflake breach that allegedly impacted 165 customers of the cloud-based data platform. The breach affected a range of companies, from Ticketmaster to Advance Auto Parts and banking organization Santander. In Truist’s statement, they made clear that the Snowflake incident was unrelated to the breach they faced. 

Who Was Affected by This Breach?

The breach at Truist Bank had a significant impact, particularly on the bank's employees and potentially its customers. Here's a detailed breakdown of those affected:

1. Personal Information of Employees Compromised: Approximately 65,000 Truist Bank employees had their detailed personal and professional information stolen. This could include names, addresses, social security numbers, and employment details.

2. Employees Financial Data: Employee bank account numbers and balances were part of the compromised data. This type of information is particularly sensitive as it can lead to direct financial fraud or identity theft.

3. Customer Transaction Data: The breach also included bank transactions involving customer names, account numbers, and balances. This means that not only employees but also customers who had transactions during the affected period might be at risk.

4. IVR System Source Code: The stolen data also contained the source code for Truist Bank’s Interactive Voice Response (IVR) phone system, which is used for transferring funds. Access to this code could allow hackers to find vulnerabilities and potentially manipulate or exploit the system for fraudulent activities.

5. Third-Party Impact: Given that the stolen data includes the IVR system's source code, other financial institutions using similar technology could be at risk if similar vulnerabilities are found and exploited.

6. Identity Theft and Fraud: The compromised personal and financial information can be used for identity theft, leading to fraudulent activities not just for the employees but also affecting their families and acquaintances if personal details are interconnected.

How to Protect Yourself From This Type of Event in the Future?

Data breaches can have far-reaching consequences, including identity theft, financial loss, and long-term impacts on credit and personal security. While companies are responsible for securing their systems, individuals must also take proactive measures to safeguard their personal information. Here are some tips that you can use to stay safe from data breaches:

• Regularly Check Statements: Frequently review your bank statements and transaction history for any unauthorized or unusual activities. Early detection of fraudulent transactions can help mitigate damage.

• Set Up Alerts: Utilize your bank’s notification services to receive alerts for transactions over a certain amount or for any suspicious activities. Many banks offer real-time alerts via email or text message.

• Credit Monitoring: Sign up for credit monitoring services that notify you of changes to your credit report, such as new accounts opened in your name, which can indicate identity theft.

• Limit Personal Information Sharing: Be cautious about the personal information you share online, especially on social media platforms. Avoid posting sensitive details such as your full address, date of birth, or phone number.

• Use Privacy Tools: Tools like PrivacyHawk can help you delete sensitive information from unnecessary corporate and data broker databases, reducing the risk of it being exposed in a data breach.

• Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create complex passwords for each of your online accounts. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters to make your passwords harder to guess.

• Password Manager: Utilize a password manager to generate and store unique passwords for different sites. This reduces the risk of using the same password across multiple sites, which can be compromised in a breach.

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security by enabling 2FA for your accounts. This requires a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password.

• Keep software updated: Regularly update your operating system, antivirus software, and applications to protect against the latest security vulnerabilities.

• Use Antivirus and Anti-Malware Tools: Install reliable antivirus and anti-malware software to protect your devices from malicious attacks.

• Secure Your Internet Connection: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing sensitive information over public Wi-Fi to encrypt your data and protect it from eavesdropping.

• Avoid Phishing Scams: Be wary of emails from unknown senders or unexpected messages from known contacts. Do not click on suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources.

• Verify Requests for Information: Legitimate companies will not ask for sensitive information such as passwords or Social Security numbers via email. Verify any such requests by contacting the company directly using official contact information.

• Shred Sensitive Documents: Shred documents contain personal information before being disposed of to prevent dumpster divers from accessing your data.

• Secure Mailbox: Use a secure mailbox to receive sensitive mail and prevent theft of important documents.

• Stay Updated on Security Practices: Keep yourself informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. Awareness can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercrime.

• Regular Training: Participate in any available cybersecurity training and education programs to stay current on how to protect your personal information.

By implementing these measures, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to data breaches and other cybersecurity threats. 

Conclusion

The Truist Bank data breach explains the ongoing challenges that financial institutions face in securing their systems and protecting sensitive information. Despite the bank's swift response and thorough investigation, the exposure of sensitive data on the dark web shows the constant threat of cyberattacks and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures.

For individuals, the breach serves as a critical reminder of the need to take proactive steps to protect personal information. Regular monitoring of account activity, using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and being cautious with emails and links are essential practices. Additionally, reducing your digital footprint through tools like PrivacyHawk can significantly control the risk of being caught in a data breach.

PrivacyHawk helps prevent people from falling victim to data breaches by enabling them to delete sensitive information from unnecessary and unwanted companies and corporate databases. Furthermore, PrivacyHawk's ID theft protection suite offers comprehensive protection even if the worst happens, with up to $1M in ID theft insurance, live phone support, and dark web monitoring and alerts. 

So, by staying alert and using comprehensive protective tools and services like PrivacyHawk, you can better safeguard your personal information against cyber threats. Download PrivacyHawk from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for free today.