Fidelity Investments has recently disclosed a data breach affecting approximately 77,000 customers, as reported in a notice submitted to the Maine attorney general's office. The breach, which took place in August, appears to be linked to two newly opened accounts at the asset management firm. However, the exact methods that allowed hackers to access customer information remain unclear.

While Fidelity has not detailed the specific types of personal data accessed, the company assured customers that no accounts or financial assets were compromised. “We detected this activity on August 19 and took immediate steps to terminate the access,” Fidelity explained in a letter sent to affected customers.

In light of the breach, Fidelity has committed to supporting customers who may have concerns, stating, “We take our duty to serve customers and protect their information seriously.” Nevertheless, the company has opted not to provide further elaboration on the incident.

What Affected Customers Should Do:

If you find yourself among those affected by the Fidelity breach, there are essential actions you should consider. Despite impacting a small fraction of Fidelity’s vast customer base of 51.5 million, it’s critical to take preemptive steps. Fidelity is offering two years of credit monitoring and identity theft protection services through TransUnion Interactive for affected individuals. Be sure to use the code provided in your notification letter to activate these services.

To further safeguard your identity, it’s recommended to change your account password immediately and vigilantly monitor your Fidelity account for any unusual activity. If you aren’t sure whether your information was compromised, changing your password can be a beneficial precaution.

Moreover, considering the potential exposure of sensitive information, it's wise to keep an eye on your credit reports across all major bureaus: TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian.

With the growing concern over cybersecurity threats, this unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting personal data. Stay informed, take necessary actions, and safeguard your information against potential fraud. Remember, vigilance is your best defense!