Following the announcement that nearly half of U.S. population’s personal data was exposed -- including Social Security numbers, birth dates, and addresses -- due to an enormous security breach at Equifax, one of the nation’s major credit reporting agencies, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Committee on Financial Services, made the following statement:

“This hack into sensitive information compiled and maintained by Equifax is one of the largest data breaches in our nation’s history and someone has to be held accountable. Given the important role credit scores play in the lives and financial futures of hardworking Americans, Congress must diligently examine the way our credit reporting agencies are operating and impose additional statutory and regulatory reforms to protect the integrity of the country’s credit reporting system. I have long advocated for an overhaul of our nation’s credit reporting system and I will reintroduce legislation that will enhance consumer protection tools available to minimize harm caused by identity theft.

“Beyond the steps they have already taken, Equifax should at the very least offer free credit freezes to all of those affected by this deeply troubling incident.”

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