The article explains that a data-breach alert does not necessarily mean identity theft has occurred, but it should prompt people to monitor their accounts closely. It distinguishes between personal information being exposed and that information being actively misused, stressing that confirmed identity theft can require significant effort to resolve.

It advises people who suspect misuse of their information to take protective steps such as monitoring financial activity, setting account alerts, strengthening logins and freezing their credit. The article also highlights fraud alerts and securing phone numbers and retirement accounts as ways to reduce the risk of further unauthorised activity.