Michigan AG Urges Vigilance Regarding Personal Info

"LANSING – Attorney General Mike Cox advised consumers today to order their free credit reports and carefully review all financial statements in the wake of recent nationwide security breaches involving consumers' personal information. Cox's warning follows today's reports in the media that HSBC, a financial institution, had sent 180,000 letters to consumers advising that their credit card information has been compromised.

"Today’s announcement emphasizes how important it is for consumers to monitor not only their free credit reports but also their credit card bills, bank statements, and other financial reports," Cox said. "An educated consumer is an empowered consumer. Those consumers whose information is stolen will experience fewer problems the sooner they find out about any breach."

Cox’s office is investigating today’s announcement from HSBC to determine how Michigan consumers may be affected and whether there have been any unnecessary delays in notifying consumers. Investigations into recent identity theft breaches by ChoicePoint, Lexis, and DSW are ongoing and Cox encourages consumers to report problems to his office.

A comprehensive Consumer Alert, "Free Annual Credit Reports - What Consumers Should Know" and extensive information about preventing and reporting identity theft is available at the Attorney General's Web site, www.michigan.gov/ag. Consumers may also contact the Consumer Protection Division toll-free at 1-877-765-8388, or in writing at: Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection Division, P.O. Box 30213, Lansing, MI 48909."