State accidentally releases private information

Published:
MGN

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Department of State is offering free credit monitoring to some 13,000 people.

In a release, the DOS said it had inadvertently released confidential information, including names, birth dates and social security numbers of people on a 2003 developmental disability heath care services waiting list.

The state released the records, which were posted to former Governor Jeb Bush’s website where he has posted emails while he was in office, in an effort to show transparency. However, the state did not redact the private information and it was therefore posted online.

If you think your personal information has been compromised, you need to call the DOS at (850) 245-6068.

If the department confirms your information was compromised, it will give you one year of free credit monitoring through LifeLock. DOS also recommended you request a free credit report, so you can check for fraudulent activity. You can access a free credit report by clicking here. You should also call the three major credit agencies listed below and ask to have a fraud alert put on your credit files.

Experian – 1-888-397-3742
Equifax – 1-888-766-0008
TransUnion – 1-800-680-7289

 

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