TMCnet News
Wolf Administration Advises Businesses to Fortify Customer Account Controls Following Equifax BreachHARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 21, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Following the recent announcement that hackers had gained access to consumer data from Equifax, one of the three major credit-reporting agencies, Secretary of Banking and Securities Robin L. Wiessmann today advised Pennsylvania businesses to take additional measures to protect their customers' personal and financial data. The department regularly shares cybersecurity information and resources with businesses it supervises, including banks and credit unions, investment advisers, and consumer lenders. Wiessmann encourages all businesses to review their cybersecurity measures in light of the Equifax breach. "While our financial services community has long recognized the importance of cybersecurity, it is incumbent on all businesses to stay current with and follow cybersecurity best practices," said Wiessmann. "The Department of Banking and Securities Cybersecurity Task Force provides cybersecurity resources for the business community because we recognize the existential threat that hackers and other online criminals present to businesses." Wiessmann advises that businesses can take several steps to protect themselves and Pennsylvania consumers, including performing due diligence on contracts they may have with Equifax and other companies that handle confidential customer information. Additionally, Wiessmann advises businesses to ask themseves these basic questions:
"Even if your business does not conduct financial transactions online, stolen information can be used to impersonate, deceive, and steal, potentially devastating both businesses and individuals" said Wiessmann. "All business leaders must recognize that it is not a question of 'if' their organization will be hacked, but 'when' – if they have not already been targeted." The department offers online resources that can help businesses and consumers protect themselves from cyberthieves: www.dobs.pa.gov/Businesses/cybersecurity/Pages/default.aspx The department's Cybersecurity Task Force is focused on providing resources to help maintain the integrity of Pennsylvania's financial services marketplace. Businesses and consumers are invited to connect to the department through Facebook and Twitter, or subscribing to the department's newsletter. MEDIA CONTACT: Ed Novak, 717-783-4721 View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wolf-administration-advises-businesses-to-fortify-customer-account-controls-following-equifax-breach-300523831.html SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities |