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Opt out of marketing, protect ID
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January 29, 2010 | 10:36 AM
More than 1.1 million records of New York State residents were impacted by over 400 data breaches in 2009, according to Gov. David Paterson, highlighting the need for vigilance among all entities that handle personal identifiable information in our State. "We are committed to providing important information and resources to help businesses avoid data breaches, and assisting thousands of consumers who have fallen victim to identity theft," he stated.
Nationally, more than 342 million records containing sensitive personal information have been involved in data breaches from 2005-2009, according to reports by the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse. Identity theft is the most common consumer fraud complaint in the United States affecting approximately ten million Americans each year. New York State is sixth per capita in identity theft complaints in the nation.
The Consumer Protection Board is focusing on the growing problem of medical identity theft — what it is, what to look out for, how to avoid it, and ways to fight back. The CPB is also launching an initiative called "Exercise Your Options," which will inform consumers about privacy options such as opting out of "pre-approved" offers, reducing telemarketing calls by signing up for the Do Not Call Registry, monitoring their credit history by obtaining free credit reports, and more.
The CPB has a wealth of resources for consumers on how to safeguard their personal information, including an Identity Theft Prevention and Mitigation Program in which trained personnel are available to assist New York State residents in dealing with the threat and consequences of this crime. The CPB also has valuable resources for the business community.
These include the video "Anatomy of a Data Breach: What Your Business Needs to Know" and the CPB's highly acclaimed Business Privacy Guide. Anatomy of a Data Breach, the Business Privacy Guide and numerous resources can be accessed on the CPB's website at: www.nysconsumer.gov.
Cyber security tips, webcasts, videos and guidebooks can be found on CSCIC's website at www.cscic.state.ny.us/cscorner/news. New York's information technology guidelines and related resources can be obtained at www.oft.state.ny.us.
Please access these links, and put the information contained within them to work for you in helping to protect your identity and personal information.
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