Equifax cyber incident: how to protect yourself

12 Sep 2017 02:11 PM

We are aware of a cyber incident affecting the credit rating agency Equifax, and are working with partners to understand any potential impact in the UK.

Since the incident was first reported to us on Friday 8 September, we have been working with Equifax, as well as law enforcement partners in the USA and UK, in order to gain a precise understanding of the extent of the data leak and whether any UK citizens may have been affected. We will post a more detailed update when we have more information to give.

Until then, anyone concerned that their data may be affected can contact Equifax by visiting the Equifax website for further information.

Here’s what you can do to make yourself safer:

Criminals often use information they have obtained during a data breach to commit fraud by contacting people by email and requesting them to provide personal information or click on malicious links

We would also reiterate our general cyber security advice, which people can apply to their own personal data and computer devices:

Sign up for free to Action Fraud Alert to receive direct, verified, accurate information about scams and fraud in your area by email, recorded voice and text message.