Experian breach affects 15 million consumers – apparently those protecting our data are equally vulnerable

In an ironic kick-off to National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the folks that provide services for Americans to check their credit report, keep an eye on the bad guys trying to commit identity theft against them and provide the insurance if they're worried they will, has been hacked.

Experian North America is a credit bureau and consumer data broker.  They disclosed Thursday that a breach of its computer systems exposed approximately 15 million Social Security numbers and other data on people who applied for financing from wireless provider T-Mobile USA Inc.  Read more on the breach and what Americans can do to protect themselves from my favourite blogger, KrebsOnSecurity.

A note to Canadians

This particular breach is not a concern to Canadians and if you're following this story, there's a few facts for you to note relating to the differences between Canadian and American credit reporting agencies, ways to protect yourself and more.

• Canadians have Social Insurance Numbers and Americans have Social Security Numbers - essentially the same thing but a different name.  If you're reading an article that mentions a SSN, ignore it as it's relating to American specifics that might not relate to us as Canadians.
• There are only two main credit reporting agencies in Canada - Equifax and TransUnion.  Experian does exist in Canada, but they're a very small player.
• In Canada, we do not have the option of a credit freeze as they do in the U.S.  You can put a "pro-active credit alert" on your file which will cost you $5 for Equifax and TransUnion and they last six years each.  This alert asks the creditor to first call you (you'll want to add your cell phone number) before approving credit like a new cell phone, car loan, credit card and more.  However, it's only mandated in Ontario and Manitoba.  It's not a requirement - merely a suggestion - in the other provinces.

To learn more about how to keep your cyber life safe and protect your family's identity, join me at a city near you as I'm part of a cross Canada speaking tour. I’ll be speaking about this subject and how to create a S.A.F.E. Financial Life – learn how to protect you family from identity theft and fraud.  The events are free to the public but fill up fast.  Reserve your seat in your city by visiting: www.bermaneducation.com