What consumers need to know in response to Equifax data breach

You can get free credit reports each year by going to annualcreditreport.com.

"I$3 t is important to remember that even if a person's information was a part of this breach, it does not mean that they will become the victim of identity theft". This does not impact your ability to use your credit cards, but it does prevent others from opening an account in your name.

Colorado's attorney general is warning consumers that the Equifax data breach is "very serious" and urged people to take some basic steps to protect their personal information.

To make a credit freeze truly effective, you'll need to request one from all three major credit reporting bureaus - Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

Next, check your credit reports. the Federal Trade Commission recommends visiting identitytheft.gov if it appears you've been a victim of identity theft. Don't give out personal information to those who contact you asking for information to verify accounts, and be wary of clicking on links or downloading attachments in email messages. If in doubt, contact the bank or business directly at a phone number or website known to you. Getting an account statement for an account that you did not authorize is an indication that an individual may be the victim of identity theft. It is free for all consumers to remove the freeze, according to TransUnion's website. However, given how many USA consumers probably have been affected, you or someone close to you may have been impacted and should take defensive steps for protection.

Experian:$10.95 (which includes tax) to freeze, and $10.95 to remove.

The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) says it was partnered with Equifax on the auto organization's identity protection program. Equifax said the database intrusion began in May and continued until July.

As a result, many security departments are underfunded or lack the authority to impose sound security practices across the company - including on employees who write software, said Rich Mogull, who runs the security research firm Securosis. "Some heads should definitely roll for this; it's only a question of how many".

"In the face of ubiquitous online security threats - more pertinent than ever following the Equifax data breach - Congress must act to put the power back in the hands of consumers", Blumenthal said in the press release. Other companies offer similar programs.