Recent Phone Number Data Leak: Coping with Harassing Calls

[Mostafa044]

Verify Sender Identity: Always question unsolicited calls, SMS messages, or emails, especially if they ask for personal information, passwords, or urge immediate action.
Don't Click Suspicious Links: Never click on links in suspicious messages. Instead, go directly to the official website of the company or organization mentioned.
Official Communication: Be aware that legitimate organizations (banks, government, operators) will rarely ask for sensitive information via unsolicited calls or SMS.
II. Reactive Measures: After Suspecting/Confirming a Leak
If you find out your phone number has been leaked (e.g., via a breach checker or suspicious activity), act swiftly.

Change Passwords Immediately: Change passwords for all accounts linked to that phone number, especially high-value accounts like banking, email, and social media.
Enable/Strengthen 2FA: If you weren't using 2FA, enable it. If dominican republic phone number list you were using SMS 2FA, switch to an authenticator app if possible.
Notify Your Mobile Operator: Explain your concern about a potential SIM swap or unauthorized activity. Ask them to put extra security measures on your account.
Monitor Financial Accounts: Scrutinize your bank statements, mobile banking apps (e.g., bKash, Nagad, Rocket), and credit card activity for any unauthorized transactions.
Inform Close Contacts: Alert friends and family that your number may have been compromised and to be wary of messages or calls impersonating you.
Report Spam/Scams: Report persistent spam calls or SMS to your mobile operator. In Bangladesh, BTRC has mechanisms for reporting spam and harassment.
III. General Best Practices for Digital Security
These habits contribute to overall digital hygiene and reduce your vulnerability.

Keep Software Updated: Ensure your smartphone's operating system (Android/iOS) and all apps are always updated to the latest versions. Updates often include critical security patches.
Use Reputable Antivirus/Security Apps: Install and regularly scan with a trusted mobile security application.
Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi: Avoid conducting sensitive transactions (banking, shopping) on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) if you must.
Regularly Review Privacy Settings: Periodically check and adjust the privacy settings on all your apps and online services to ensure you're only sharing what's necessary.