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 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 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 fromthe three nationwide credit bureaus. Check for inaccuracies.
- Check your mail: Review any letters, looking for signs of identity theft, such as unexpected bills.
- Consider placing a security freeze on your credit report to prevent criminals from opening accounts in your name. It prohibits the release of any information from without your written authorization.
Tennessee consumers may file complaints of identity theft online at tn.gov/consumer or by calling the TDCI Division of Consumer Affairs at (800) 342-8385. For information on preventing identity theft or to report suspicious activity, contact the Federal Trade Commission at (877) 438-4338 or find information online at ftc.gov.
