Division Of Aging And Adult Services Announces Credit Fraud Alert For Clients Affected By Stolen Laptop, North Carolina

Main Category: Public Health
Also Included In: IT / Internet / E-mail
Article Date: 19 Nov 2008 - 7:00 PDT

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The North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) announced that it is arranging a credit fraud alert for clients of home and community services administered by the Division. This is in response to a security breach that DAAS recently announced. While the alert was arranged with TransUnion, one of the three national credit reporting agencies, it will also apply to the other two agencies as well - Equifax and Experian.

DAAS had already contacted all individuals whose personal information may have been compromised after the theft of an employee's computer. In the meantime, DAAS had been working with the major credit reporting agencies on the idea of a fraud alert for all affected clients. DAAS Director Dennis Streets said, "While we have helped a lot of clients and their families with their questions, and we are aware that many individuals have taken our advice and have arranged for their own fraud alert, we also know that despite our efforts and those of our colleagues - CARE-LINE, the area agencies on aging and local aging providers - we could still not be certain that all clients were reached and able to take the needed precautions. The fraud alert will certainly help in this regard."

The fraud alert will last 90 days and is intended to notify creditors that action may be required under the Fair Credit Reporting Act before opening or modifying an account. Clients will receive a written verification of the fraud alert from the credit reporting agencies, allowing them also to request a free credit report. In addition, the initial 90-day coverage can be renewed by the client at no charge.

Streets expressed his continued concern for the clients and his appreciation for the assistance provided by TransUnion. He is especially appreciative of how so many people have reached out to help affected clients. "While nothing can alleviate all of the concern caused by this incident, it has been heartwarming to see how families and neighbors of clients have responded, along with state staff, area agencies on aging, local providers and many others to assist and reassure those affected," he said.

Those with questions may contact the DHHS CARE-LINE, Information and Referral Service at 1-800-662-7030 (English/Espanol) or TTY for the hearing impaired at 1-877-452-2514. The CARE-LINE is open 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week, including state holidays. In the Triangle area, call 919-855-4400 or 919-733-4851 (TTY for the hearing impaired).

North Carolina Dept. of Health and Human Services
www.dhhs.state.nc.us