All incidents
My personal information may have leaked
You've learned that your ID number, banking details, address, or other personal information may have been exposed, perhaps through a data breach at a company you use. This increases the risk of identity theft and targeted scams, but it doesn't mean fraud has definitely happened.
Do this now
- Check which specific information was exposed, if the notifying organisation has told you.
- Watch your bank accounts and credit-related communication closely over the coming weeks.
- Be extra cautious of follow-up calls or messages referencing the leaked details — scammers often use leaked information to sound convincing.
Then do this
- Consider placing a note or alert with your bank if ID or card details were exposed.
- Change passwords on accounts linked to the exposed email address.
- Enable MFA on your most important accounts (email, banking).
Check these things
- Which specific fields were exposed — email, ID number, banking details, password?
- Are you receiving unusual calls or messages that reference this information?
Don't do this
- Don't panic-close accounts without understanding what was actually exposed.
- Don't share further personal information to 'verify' your identity with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
When should I get help?
- Contact your bank if ID or financial details were part of the leak.
- Consider consulting South Africa's information regulator resources on POPIA for your rights.