Amid a surge in data breaches across Michigan, Attorney General Dana Nessel has outlined steps for consumers to protect their information. Notable breaches this year include McLaren Health Care, Change Healthcare, Ascension Healthcare, and AT&T, leaving many vulnerable to identity theft. Nessel, said, "The number of data breaches and identity theft reports continues to rise every year." She stressed the importance of taking data breach notifications seriously to protect against fraud, according to a release from the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
For proactive protection, the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Data Breaches: What to do Next alert offers guidance. The alert explains the types of information at risk and provides strategies to prevent identity theft. The Federal Trade Commission also advises consumers on creating strong passwords and securing accounts. Consumers are encouraged to carefully review emails to avoid phishing attempts, strengthen or change passwords, not retain unnecessary data, and use multifactor authentication.
Nessel suggests monitoring credit reports for signs of fraud. Consumers can access free weekly credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion through the Annual Credit Report website.
Michigan residents can find additional information and holiday scam alerts on the Department of Attorney General’s website. To file a complaint or seek further help, consumers can contact the Consumer Protection Team by mail, phone, or online form.
