AT&T Data Breach – What You Need to Know and How to Protect Yourself

Dakota Ross
Jun 19
3 min read

🚨 What Happened?

A massive data breach involving AT&T customer information has resurfaced online, putting up to 86 million people at risk of identity theft. Originally stolen in 2024, the data has now been sold to Russian cybercriminals, according to cybersecurity sources including Hackread.com and McAfee.

📂 What Data Was Leaked?

The leaked database includes:

Full names
Phone numbers
Email addresses
Physical addresses
Social Security numbers (for nearly 44 million individuals)

This kind of information is a goldmine for identity thieves.

🧠 Expert Warning

McAfee security expert Jasdev Dhaliwal warns that the data is already circulating and could be used to impersonate individuals, open fraudulent accounts, or file fake tax returns.

🛡️ What You Should Do Right Now

If you're an AT&T customer (past or present), take these steps immediately:

Change your AT&T account password and enable two-factor authentication.
Monitor your credit reports for suspicious activity.
1. You can do this easily with a service like Credit Karma.
Freeze your credit with all three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion).
1. 🔒 1. Equifax
  1. Website: Equifax Credit Freeze
  2. Phone: 1‑800‑349‑9960
  3. What You’ll Need:
    - Full name
    - Social Security number
    - Date of birth
    - Address
    - Answers to identity verification questions
2. 🔒 2. Experian
  1. Website: Experian Freeze Center
  2. Phone: 1‑888‑397‑3742
  3. What You’ll Need:
    - Same personal info as above
    - You may need to create an Experian account
3. 🔒 3. TransUnion
  1. Website: TransUnion Credit Freeze
  2. Phone: 1‑888‑909‑8872
  3. What You’ll Need:
    - Same personal info
    - You can manage your freeze through their online portal
Request an IRS Identity Protection PIN to prevent tax fraud.
1. ✅ How to Request an IP PIN
  Option 1: Online (Fastest Method)
  1. Go to the IRS website: Get an IP PIN
  2. Sign in or create an IRS Online Account.
    - You’ll need to verify your identity using a photo ID and other personal information.
  3. Once logged in, go to your “Profile” page.
  4. Select the option to opt in for an IP PIN.
  5. Your IP PIN will be displayed in your account and must be used when filing your tax return.
2. Option 2: If You Can’t Use the Online Tool
  1. Form 15227: If you have an SSN or ITIN and an adjusted gross income below a certain threshold, you can complete and mail Form 15227.
  2. In-Person Verification: Schedule an appointment at a local IRS office for identity verification.
3. 📌 Important Notes
  1. A new IP PIN is generated each calendar year.
  2. The IRS does not send the IP PIN by mail if you opted in online—you must retrieve it from your IRS account annually.
  3. Never share your IP PIN except with your trusted tax preparer when filing.
Watch for phishing emails or scam calls pretending to be from AT&T or government agencies.

🛡️ Consider Aura for Comprehensive Identity Protection

In light of the recent AT&T data breach, using a trusted identity protection service can add an extra layer of defense. Aura is a top-rated all-in-one solution that offers:

Real-time fraud alerts from all three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)
$1 million identity theft insurance per adult (up to $5 million for families)
Instant credit lock to prevent unauthorized access
Home and auto title monitoring
Antivirus, VPN, and password manager for digital security
Spam call and data broker removal tools
24/7 U.S.-based fraud resolution support

Aura is especially useful for families, covering five adults and unlimited children under one plan.

You can learn more or sign up for a free trial to start protecting your identity today.

📝 Final Thoughts

Even if AT&T claims this is not a new breach, the repackaging and resale of this data means the threat is very real. Stay vigilant, take proactive steps, and share this information with friends and family who may be affected.