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LexisNexus Consumer Information Database Hacked

by Richard A. Chapo

On March 9, 2005, LexisNexus announced that hackers had gained access to its consumer information database. The hackers may have accessed the information of as many as 32,000 citizens in the United States.

LexisNexus is an information broker owned by the Reed Elsevier Group, PLC. The company is reporting that hackers used the legitimate logins and passwords of existing customers to access the database. The database, called Accurint, include the following information for individuals:

• Social Security Number
  
• Past Addresses
  
• Date of Birth
  
• Voter Registration Information
  

The database did not include the credit history, banking or medical record information of individuals. The company intends to notify consumers that are impacted by the hacking.

Commentary

The exposure of consumer information is a serious problem. This and other databases are regularly hacked. In this case, the exposure of social security numbers, past addresses and date of birth for individuals is a recipe for identity theft. Using this information, the hackers will easily be able to open credit card accounts in the name of the exposed individuals.

Combined with the exposure of information in the Bank of America and ChoicePoint situations, it is now time for legislation requiring information brokers to maintain certain security standards. From a practical perspective, you should regularly check your credit report to make sure accounts are not being opened in your name.

Richard A. Chapo is an attorney with http://www.sandiegobusinesslawfirm.com - providing legal services to San Diego businesses.

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