Global Security, Privacy, & Risk Management

Equifax Data Theft -“Doctor Heal Thyself!” September 8, 2017

I woke up this morning to the news that Equifax had experienced a data breach from Mid May through July of 2017 and affected data of 143 million customers.  The data exposed includes: “…names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, addresses and, in some instances, driver’s license numbers. In addition, credit card numbers for approximately 209,000 U.S. consumers, and certain dispute documents with personal identifying information for approximately 182,000 U.S. consumers…”  You know…the type of data someone can use to actually commit identity theft.

I used the handy “Equifax tool” (you should use it!) to find whether my information or my wife’s information had been exposed.  Surprise!  It had!…now, as a consolation prize I do get a free year of credit monitoring from (cough, cough) Equifax.  The irony of this statement is palpable…Equifax has also provided “…additional information on steps consumers can take to protect their personal information.”   This is akin to someone giving you Ebola and then saying: “Hey…I know I gave you Ebola but here are some things you should do to keep from…catching Ebola…”  Thanks Equifax!

To make us feel better the CEO of Equifax (Rick Smith) stated: “We pride ourselves on being a leader in managing and protecting data, and we are conducting a thorough review of our overall security operations. We also are focused on consumer protection and have developed a comprehensive portfolio of services to support all U.S. consumers, regardless of whether they were impacted by this incident.” …What about the incident in 2015?  Shouldn’t that have been a wakeup call?

If you are concerned that you might be a victim, please use this link to check.  Then…ensure you ‘lock’ your credit reports so someone cannot open accounts in your name.  This is much, much, mUCH, MUCH, worse than a payment card theft.  With your social and other identifying info, someone can ‘steal’ your identity.

Thanks Equifax!!