The National Public Data Breach: What Labor Unions Need to Know and How to Protect Themselves

In recent months, one of the largest and most alarming data breaches in history—known as the National Public Data (NPD) breach—has captured the attention of industries and organizations across the nation. This breach, which surfaced in August 2024 after being leaked in December 2023, exposed an astounding 2.7 billion records, including highly sensitive data like U.S. Social Security numbers. As labor unions are key protectors of workers’ rights and welfare, understanding the implications of such a breach is crucial.

Labor unions face unique challenges when it comes to safeguarding their members’ personal information. With large databases containing names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and employment details, labor unions are potential targets for cybercriminals. In this blog, we’ll explore how the NPD breach impacts labor unions, the risks their members face, and what steps they can take to secure their data and protect their members.

What Is National Public Data?

National Public Data (NPD) is a compilation of various publicly accessible data sources, often collected by government agencies, private companies, and public records systems. While some of this data is intended for legal or informational purposes, its widespread collection makes it highly valuable to cybercriminals. When the NPD breach occurred, it exposed over 2.7 billion records, ranging from personally identifiable information (PII) to Social Security numbers, alternative names, addresses, and phone numbers. With this data now available on the dark web, labor unions must be aware of the risks their members face and how criminals can exploit this information.

How the NPD Breach Impacts Labor Unions

Labor unions, representing a vast number of workers from various industries, collect and store large amounts of member data. This includes PII such as names, addresses, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers—precisely the type of information exposed in the NPD breach. The stakes are particularly high for labor unions due to their role as stewards of workers’ trust. A data breach or exploitation of union member information could have severe consequences, both for the individuals affected and the union’s reputation.

Here are key risks labor unions need to be aware of:

1. Identity Theft and Fraud: With the exposure of Social Security numbers and personal details, cyber criminals can easily commit identity theft. This could involve opening fraudulent accounts, taking out loans in the name of union members, or even misusing these identities for illegal activities.
2. Phishing and Social Engineering: Cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated. By using personal details from the breach, such as former addresses or alternative names, they can craft convincing phishing emails and phone scams targeting union members. These scams can trick individuals into revealing even more sensitive information or transferring money to fraudulent accounts.
3. Account Takeovers: Historical data, like old addresses or nicknames, can be used to bypass security measures such as security questions or multi-factor authentication, giving criminals access to union members’ financial or online accounts.
4. Targeted Scams on Vulnerable Members: Older union members or retirees may be particularly vulnerable to scams that use their leaked personal data. Fraudulent IRS claims, pension theft, or tech support scams are common tactics cybercriminals use to exploit older individuals.

The Responsibilities of Labor Unions in Data Protection

Labor unions are not only responsible for negotiating on behalf of their members but also for safeguarding their personal data. With the rise in cyberattacks and breaches like NPD, unions need to take proactive steps to protect sensitive information and maintain their members’ trust.

Here’s what labor unions can do:

1. Invest in Cybersecurity Infrastructure: Unions need to implement multi-layered cybersecurity defenses, such as firewalls, encrypted databases, and automated threat detection systems. These measures can help detect and neutralize threats before they cause widespread harm.
2. Regular Data Audits and Compliance: Conducting regular audits of union data storage practices can help identify vulnerabilities. Additionally, labor unions should ensure they are complying with any applicable privacy laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or local data protection regulations, to avoid legal complications.
3. Employee and Member Education: One of the biggest risks to security is human error. Labor union employees and members alike need to be educated on best practices for cybersecurity, such as recognizing phishing attempts and maintaining strong passwords. A well-informed membership base can act as the first line of defense.
4. Monitor for Leaked Data: Unions should regularly monitor for any signs that their members’ data has been leaked or compromised. By identifying breaches early, they can take steps to mitigate damage, such as offering credit monitoring services or working with law enforcement to address the breach.

At Onsite Logic, we understand the unique challenges faced by labor unions, which is why we’ve developed CyberSecure for Unions—a comprehensive cybersecurity program tailored to meet the needs of recordkeepers, fiduciaries, and other essential service providers within the union landscape. In this blog, we’ll explore the implications of the NPD breach, its potential impact on unions, and how CyberSecure for Unions can help safeguard their critical data.

How Onsite Logic’s CyberSecure for Unions Helps Labor Unions Stay Safe

To address the growing cybersecurity threats facing labor unions, Onsite Logic has developed a specialized service called CyberSecure for Unions. Our solution is designed to ensure unions follow the best cybersecurity practices and maintain compliance with key standards, such as those established by the Department of Labor (DOL).

Here’s how CyberSecure for Unions helps labor unions protect their critical data:

1. Meeting the DOL’s Cybersecurity Standards

The Department of Labor (DOL) has emphasized the importance of strong cybersecurity measures for those managing plan-related IT systems and data, such as recordkeepers and fiduciaries. Our CyberSecure program ensures that unions adhere to these standards, offering peace of mind to those responsible for safeguarding member data.

2. Comprehensive, Consistent, and Cost-Effective Protection

The challenges of securing union operations require a holistic and tailored approach. With CyberSecure for Unions, we provide a comprehensive solution that covers all 12 of the DOL’s recommended best practices for cybersecurity. From safeguarding personally identifiable information to ensuring secure access controls, we address every facet of your union’s cybersecurity needs.

Plus, our service is offered at a predictable monthly fee, ensuring that unions receive top-tier protection without the uncertainty of fluctuating costs. It’s a cost-effective way to maintain strong security protocols without burdening the union’s financial resources.

3. Tailored Solutions for Union Operations

We understand the intricacies of labor union operations, and that’s why CyberSecure for Unions is designed to cater to the unique needs of union leadership, administrative staff, and fiduciaries. Our solution includes regular monitoring, threat detection, and incident response plans, ensuring that your union is always prepared to counteract cyber threats.

Protecting Your Union Members: Steps You Can Take

While CyberSecure for Unions offers robust protection for labor unions as an organization, union members can also take proactive steps to protect their personal information in light of the NPD breach:

1. Freeze Credit: Encourage members to place a credit freeze with credit bureaus to prevent cybercriminals from opening new accounts in their names.
2. Monitor Credit Reports: Regularly check credit reports for any unauthorized activity. Free credit monitoring services can alert members to changes in their credit profiles.
3. Stay Vigilant: Remind members to be cautious of phishing scams and unsolicited messages. They should never share personal information without verifying the legitimacy of the request.
4. Update Security Protocols: Encourage members to strengthen their account security by using multi-factor authentication and regularly updating their passwords.

Conclusion: Safeguarding the Future of Labor Unions

The National Public Data breach serves as a stark reminder of the growing cyber threats facing labor unions today. As protectors of workers’ rights, labor unions must prioritize cybersecurity not only to safeguard their operations but also to maintain the trust of their members. By partnering with Onsite Logic’s CyberSecure for Unions, labor unions can ensure that their data—and their members’ futures—are fully protected.

In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, staying informed and taking proactive steps to secure sensitive data is no longer optional—it’s essential. With CyberSecure for Unions, we provide labor unions with the comprehensive, consistent, and cost-effective protection they need to meet the Department of Labor’s standards and keep their members safe.

Let’s work together to ensure the future of labor unions remains strong, secure, and resilient.