On September 7, Equifax, a consumer credit reporting agency, announced it experienced a cybersecurity hack last week potentially impacting 143 million people. The breach occurred from mid-May through July 2017, and the personal information accessed by hackers includes names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, address and some driver's license numbers. The breach was discovered by the company on July 29.
It is STRONGLY recommended that you visit https://www.equifaxsecurity2017.com/ to review important consumer information. At the bottom of the page is a button “POTENTIAL IMPACT” where you can determine if you are potentially at risk.
If you are at risk, Equifax is offering free identity theft protection and credit file monitoring to all U.S. consumers, whether impacted or not through their Trusted ID Premier service. This also includes an Equifax Credit Report Lock.
If you have not completely locked down your credit, you should do so immediately at ALL three bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
In addition, there are other safeguards you should put in place, including monitoring your bank accounts and credit activity for anything suspicious. Be wary of clicking links via email or social media claiming to have originated from Equifax.
Safeguard yourself today and share this information with family and friends.
For more information, please call the office of Ronald Castor LC at 913.469.9113.