How the Equifax breach affects you

In September, Equifax revealed a massive data breach that exposed the personal information of more than 140 million Americans. Because of this breach, your social security number, driver’s license number, credit card numbers, date of birth and address could now be on the Dark Web.

This massive system hack applies to you even if you don’t have a credit card in your own name. For example, if you applied for a car loan or for student financial aid, your information can be in Equifax’s records. Theft of personal information affects your future in ways you may not realize, including paying higher mortgage rates or the potential of having someone use your social security number to e-File and get your tax refund.

If you have not already done so, here are some steps you can take now to mitigate this data breach:

• Verify – Visit Equifax to confirm whether your personal information was breached. Equifax is providing free monitoring to those impacted
• Review your credit reports – Everyone is entitled to a free annual copy of their credit report. To request one, go directly to com
• Stay Alert! Impact of this breach will be felt for years to come. Monitor your bank and credit card statements and be skeptical about emails offering to fix your credit. It is likely a phishing attempt
• The Federal Trade Commission has set up a consumer’s webpage with up-to-date information. Check out their recommendations
• The Information Security Office launched a new Welcome page this fall, and it’s a great place to learn about the basics of staying safe online