News …
From State Representative Litesa Wallace
For Immediate Release:
Sept. 15, 2017
Wallace Sponsors Bill in Response to Equifax Breach
ROCKFORD, Ill. – In the wake of the Equifax data breach, state Rep. Litesa Wallace, D-Rockford, is sponsoring new legislation that would prevent reporting agencies from charging fees to consumers who wish to freeze their credit report.
"Residents deserve to be able to protect themselves, and using a freeze can be an effective tool," Wallace said. "The scale of the data breach is concerning, and it's critically important that individuals are able to take the steps necessary to secure their private information."
According to Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, the Equifax data breach is believed to have affected approximately 5.4 million residents in Illinois. Nationwide, it is believed as many as 143 million Americans were susceptible to the data hack. Residents can use a freeze as a tool to help protect themselves from additional account identity theft, but agencies often charge a fee. The Wallace-supported House Bill 4095 would prevent fees from being charged to Illinois consumers if they request a freeze.
"A stolen identity can cause lasting financial damage," Wallace said. "I encourage residents to follow the Equifax story as it develops to make sure they are taking the right precautions to protect themselves."
For more information, please contact Wallace's constituent service office at 815-987-7433 or at Litesa@StateRepWallace.com.
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