Community Corner
1.2 Million in Mass. Had Personal Data Compromised in 2013
The Target breach accounted for nearly 80 percent of those affected by data thefts last year.
About 1.2 million people in Massachusetts had personal and financial data compromised in 2013, according to a state report released by the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.
The figure was driven by a massive data theft at Target Corp. stores, which accounted for nearly 950,000—or 80 percent—of those that were affected.
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The number of Massachusetts residents who had personal data compromised through educational institutions increased by more than six times, to about 32,000, from 5,200 in 2012.
The report indicates that persons or businesses owning or licensing personal information of residents of the Commonwealth must carry out a comprehensive Written Information Security Program or “WISP” that contains safeguards appropriate to the size and type of business they have.
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Consumers are encouraged to monitor their credit frequently and avoid sharing personal information through text, email, or over the phone. About.com recommends paying bills online and shredding pre-approved credit card offers.
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