Attorney General’s Office Offers Consumer Tips Following Experian Data Breach

Recent reports estimate 15 million T-Mobile customers nationwide, and roughly 200,000 Tennesseans, who applied for credit through Experian are at risk of having their data compromised. The data breach occurred when an unauthorized party gained access to an Experian server containing personal information, including names, addresses, birth dates, social security numbers, driver’s license numbers and passport numbers.

In light of this data breach and any other, the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office and the Division of Consumer Affairs are encouraging consumers to take steps to guard against identity theft:

– Monitor your bank accounts: Look for any suspicious activity and promptly notify your bank if you find errors.

– Monitor your credit report: You are entitled to one free credit report every 12 months from each of the three nationwide credit bureaus. Check for inaccuracies.

– Check your mail: Open letters you receive and review looking for signs of identity theft such as unexpected bills.

– Consider placing a security freeze on your credit report: A security freeze helps prevent criminals from opening accounts in your name by prohibiting the release of any information from your report without your written authorization.

Consumers may file complaints regarding identity theft by going online to www.tn.gov/consumer or calling the TDCI Division of Consumer Affairs at (615) 741-4737 or toll-free in Tennessee at 1-800-342-8385. For information on preventing identity theft or to report suspicious activity, contact the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-438-4338 or find information at www.ftc.gov