A recent cyberattack has impacted almost all AT&T customers, exposing phone records of calls and texts from May 2022 through October 2022. AT&T confirmed the breach on January 2, 2023. The company clarified that the breach did not reveal the contents of calls or texts, Social Security numbers, passwords, or other personal information. However, the exposed information could still pose a security risk to customers.
If you are an AT&T customer, it is essential to understand the implications of this breach. AT&T will notify you through text, email, or U.S. mail if your account was affected. Given that “nearly all” customers were impacted, if you were a customer between May 1, 2022, and October 31, 2022, or on January 2, 2023, your phone logs were likely compromised.
The breach exposed the phone numbers you interacted with through calls and texts, along with the frequency of these communications. Fortunately, personal details like Social Security numbers and dates of birth were not part of the breach. Similarly, the contents of your calls and texts were not compromised. While customers’ names were not directly disclosed, AT&T warned that individuals could potentially match a phone number to a name using publicly available online tools.
It is crucial for AT&T customers to remain vigilant in light of this cyberattack. As the company continues to investigate the breach, customers should monitor their accounts for any suspicious activity. Changing passwords and enabling two-factor authentication can provide an added layer of security. Additionally, being cautious of unknown calls or texts can help prevent potential phishing attempts.
If you believe your account was affected by the breach and have not received a notification from AT&T, consider reaching out to the company for further information. Stay informed about any updates or measures recommended by AT&T to safeguard your personal information.
Cybersecurity incidents like this serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting sensitive data in a digital age. By staying informed and taking proactive steps to enhance security practices, individuals can mitigate risks associated with data breaches and cyberattacks.