Equifax Data Breach
Equifax Data Breach: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I am affected?
Visit www.equifaxsecurity2017.com and click on “potential impact” to find out if Equifax believes your information has been compromised. You’ll need your last name and the last 6 digits of your social security number. After you go through this process, Equifax will offer credit protection.
What can I do to protect myself?
- Monitor all of your bank, credit card, and other accounts regularly to make sure there are no unfamiliar charges. If there are charges you do not recognize, call to report those charges that you believe are not accurate.
- Visit www.annualcreditreport.com to get your credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You are entitled to one free credit report every year from each of the three agencies. This will help you make sure there are no unfamiliar new accounts open in your name.
- File your taxes in 2018 as soon as you are able. This will prevent a scammer from using your information to file for you, and getting access to your refund.
Should I get a credit freeze?
You can consider contacting the credit reporting agencies to put a freeze on your credit. DO NOT do this if you need to open a new account, or make a large purchase in the near future. Putting a freeze on your credit is a serious personal decision and you may want to consult your own financial planner or attorney.
What is the state of Connecticut doing?
The Office of the Attorney General is heading up the investigation into this matter for the state – and they’re the best place to go to ask for any updates.
What other resources are there?
You can visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website for more information and updates regarding the Equifax Data Breach.