Get All Access for $5/mo

Everyone's Social Security Number Has Reportedly Been Compromised in a Massive Data Hack A hacking group allegedly leaked 2.7 billion pieces of data.

By Emily Rella Edited by Melissa Malamut

Key Takeaways

  • The hacking group USDoD is claiming responsibility for leaking the personal information of Americans for $3.5 million.
  • The records include names, addresses, and social security numbers.

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

The social security number of every American may have been compromised in a massive cybersecurity breach that could threaten the identity of all citizens.

The hacking group USDoD claims that they've leaked 2.7 billion personal information records, including social security numbers, full names, and home addresses from a data broker called National Public Data (NPD).

Related: Hack Exposes 10 Billion Passwords, Largest Leak in History

NPD is a background check agency that gives sensitive personal information to potential employers and staffing agencies during screening processes, as well as private investigators.

According to a class action lawsuit, NPD obtained the data without consent, and the breach occurred sometime in April 2024.

The lawsuit alleges that "upon information and belief" USDoD was "able to exfiltrate the unencrypted PII of billions of individuals" and that the personal information was "published, offered for sale and sold on the Dark Web by cybercriminals."

According to BleepingComputer, the data was leaked for $3.5 million.

How do I know if I was hacked?

There are several ways to check if you've had your personal information leaked.

First, monitor your credit reports and look for unauthorized or fraudulent activity, including opening new bank accounts, credit cards, or large withdrawals.

Related: Mark Cuban Issues Warning After His Google Account Is Hacked

If you receive notice from a debt collector or notice fraudulent activity, contact your financial institutions and law enforcement.

Also, be the first to initiate calls (meaning if you get a call, tell them you'll call back), and don't give out your social security number.

Emily Rella

Senior News Writer

Emily Rella is a Senior News Writer at Entrepreneur.com. Previously, she was an editor at Verizon Media. Her coverage spans features, business, lifestyle, tech, entertainment, and lifestyle. She is a 2015 graduate of Boston College and a Ridgefield, CT native. Find her on Twitter at @EmilyKRella.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Science & Technology

5 Automation Strategies Every Small Business Should Follow

It's time we make IT automation work for us: streamline processes, boost efficiency and drive growth with the right tools and strategy.

Business News

Former Steve Jobs Intern Says This Is How He Would Have Approached AI

The former intern is now the CEO of AI and data company DataStax.

Leadership

Visionaries or Vague Promises? Why Companies Fail Without Leaders Who See Beyond the Bottom Line

Visionary leaders turn bold ideas into lasting impact by building resilience, clarity and future-ready teams.

Marketing

5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Giving a Presentation

Are you tired of enduring dull presentations? Over the years, I have compiled a list of common presentation mistakes and how to avoid them. Here are my top five tips.

Side Hustle

'Hustling Every Day': These Friends Started a Side Hustle With $2,500 Each — It 'Snowballed' to Over $500,000 and Became a Multimillion-Dollar Brand

Paris Emily Nicholson and Saskia Teje Jenkins had a 2020 brainstorm session that led to a lucrative business.

Employee Experience & Recruiting

There's a Growing Demand For This New Type of Professional — Here's Why Your Startup Needs Them, Too.

As startups evolve, a new breed of talent — the "boulder climber" — is emerging: adaptable professionals who balance strategic vision with hands-on execution. Learn why these versatile hires are redefining success in lean, agile teams.