The extent of the records stolen is astonishing and worrisome. Over 21 million people exposed, or around 7-8% of the U.S. population, have had personally identifiable information compromised in the attacks.

Although usernames and passwords can be changed, and compromised cards replaced, victims of a breach need to understand that every bit of information exposed is important. Fraudsters are learning that information coupled from various breaches can create more comprehensive 'identity bundles' which sell for a higher value to hackers.

With more complete information, more fraud can take place. As an example, if I'm a hacker and gain access to geographical data on John Smith from breach one, and bank account information from breach two, I can fill out a loan application or apply for a new credit card as John regularly would. 

Fortunately, user behavior analytics can provide victims of this and other breaches with an extra layer of protection even after the hack has occurred. Online fraud detection solutions can stop fraudsters in their tracks by identifying suspicious activity, in a completely passive and unintrusive way. This is accomplished by understanding how a legitimate user truly behaves in contrast to a potential fraudster with legitimate information.

Without even interrupting a user's experience, fraud can be predicted and prevented from occurring.