LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Attorney General Dana Nessel is alerting Michiganders to a massive data breach affecting 35 million Comcast/Xfinity customers nationwide.

How can consumers protect their data from scammers and identity thieves?

“I would advise all affected customers to change their passwords immediately, on their Xfinity accounts but also any other accounts for which they use the same or similar login credentials or security questions,” said Nessel. “My department’s website has tips for those who may be affected, and my consumer protection team stands ready to help any Michigan residents who might experience identity theft as a result of this breach.”

When did the breach occur?

MORE NEWS: Former Township Supervisor Reaches Plea Deal in Sexting Case

Comcast, the parent company of Xfinity, disclosed on December 18th that hackers accessed personal information of Xfinity customers in October. Comcast contends that hackers exploited a vulnerability in software provided by Citrix, one of their software providers. The hackers gained access to usernames and passwords. For some customers, the hackers stole names, contact information, the last four digits of their social security numbers, birthdates, and security questions/answers.

Comcast says it is notifying customers via the Xfinity website, email, and by alerting news media.  Xfinity customers with questions are directed by the company to call 888-799-2560.

Here are protection measures:

• Watch out for phishing emails.
• Strengthen or change passwords.
• Do not retain unnecessary data or files.
• Use multifactor authentication on devices and accounts.
• Review your credit report often.

For more information click here.