In April 2018, the TaskRabbit data breach exposed taskers and client information. What has happened? Also, how can you protect your data?
Read on to learn more.
Introduction
Another day, another data breach. In fact, a lot of high profile companies were hit by these cybersecurity incidents. The streak of breaches did not end on Delta Air Lines, Fifth Avenue, and Saks.
Unfortunately, another incident took place. This time, it’s Ikea-owned TaskRabbit.
But, before we discuss the incident, let’s find out what TaskRabbit is all about.
About TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit was founded in 2008. At that time, it was under the name RunMyErrand.
TaskRabbit is a popular Handyman-for-Hire application. But it is now owned by Ikea, a popular furniture company.
Moreover, TaskRabbit is a mobile application. It features a freelance labor marketplace in a local area.
Additionally, it became really popular among users. In fact, they have more than 1.25 million users in 2015 alone.
Also, it increased to more than 3.75 million users in the latest report. Thus, the breach really made a great impact.
TaskRabbit Data Breach Report
Due to the breach, the app and the company’s website were down. Also, they sent emails to warn users about the issue.
On Twitter, TaskRabbit said that it was just a technical issue. But in the email, they said that it was a cybersecurity incident.
Moreover, they expressed their apologies for what happened. They also hired an outside cybersecurity team.
Additionally, they alerted law enforcement. So, they can help track the criminals involved.
Also, they rescheduled any undone tasks for clients. They also compensated the Taskers who were not able to complete a task.
But, they did not provide additional details. Still, they offered free identity-restoration services for 12 months.
TaskRabbit also gave 12 months of free credit-monitoring services. This offer is available for Taskers whose bank account or Social Security numbers exposed.
TaskRabbit Data Breach Compromised Information
The breach affected both the taskers’ and clients’ information.
For the Taskers, it leaked the following data:
- name
- username
- password
- date of birth
- bank account
- payment card information
- Social Security number
For the Clients, it also exposed the following:
- name
- username
- password
- date of birth
- payment card information
How To Know If You Were Compromised
You may be worried if your information is at risk. So, we have listed some signs that you were compromised.
- unknown credit or bank charges
- notice about a store charge
- calls for a debt you don’t owe
- credit report errors from businesses you don’t know
- credit denial
- rejected file tax return
- notice from IRS about identity confirmation
What You Can Do
If you are a Tasker or Client, it’s best to think that you are affected. So, you can take the necessary steps. As a result, you can protect your accounts and identity.
Moreover, TaskRabbit advised its users to review their accounts. Also, they urged them to change passwords.
This step is critical, especially if you reused your TaskRabbit password to other websites.
In addition, cybercriminals will take advantage of this event. They will also target new victims with phishing emails.
So, if you receive an email but don’t have a TaskRabbit account, do not click suspicious links.
