New York Metropolitan Opera Notifies 45,000 People of Data Breach

Since May 3, the Metropolitan Opera in New York began notifying consumers of a data breach stemming from a cyberattack that took place on Dec. 7, 2022.

Based on the company’s official data breach notice, hackers gained access to personal information of 45,094 individuals.

Although the breached information varies depending on the individual, potentially compromised information may include a combination of the following:

· Full names

· Financial accounts information

· Tax identification numbers

· Social Security Numbers

· Payment card information in combination with security codes, access codes, passwords or PINs

· Driver’s license numbers

A copy of the data breach letter offers little to no consumer facing information on how the security incident occurred.

“The Metropolitan Opera (“the Met”) writes to inform you of a recent event that may impact the privacy of some of your information,” the company said. “We are not aware of any misuse of your information, but we are providing you with this letter as a precaution, to inform you of the event, our response, and steps you may take to help protect your information, should you feel it is necessary to do so.”

Although the Met’s notification underlines that there are currently no signs of cybercriminals misusing stolen information, the highly sensitive nature of personal data puts individuals at risk of identity theft and fraud.

Social Security Numbers paired with other personally identifiable information could allow a criminal to use your name to open a bank account, apply for credit cards, take out loans or steal tax refunds and other government benefits.

If your info ends up on the dark web or is stolen in a cyberattack, ensuring your financial security becomes a top priority. Here are six steps you can immediately take to protect your identity:

· Place a credit freeze on your financial accounts to prevent fraudsters from taking out credit cards or applying for loans in your name

· Check your financial accounts for unfamiliar charges or suspicious activity

· Create a ‘mySocialSecurity’ account on the Social Security Administration’s website to check if your SSN has been used to apply for social benefits in your name

· Check your free credit reports

· Report any fraudulent activity to law enforcement, credit reporting agencies and the IRS to avoid any legal issues

Need help monitoring your personal and financial info to defend against identity thieves? Check out our dedicated identity theft protection solutions here.