Press Release

HOW SAFE IS YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Equifax supports ICO's online healthcheck for consumers

London, September 2008 - Equifax, the online consumer credit information provider, applauds the latest initiative from the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) encouraging consumers to protect their personal data. The ICO is launching a new online information healthcheck designed to make consumers more aware of their rights under the Data Protection Act and how to keep their information safe.

"Following a number of high profile data breaches, it is more important than ever that consumers recognise the value of their personal information and understand their right to know who holds that data," explains Neil Munroe, External Affairs Director, Equifax. "We support the ICO's Personal Information Healthcheck, which aims to help consumers take control of their personal information.

"A recent survey* of Equifax customers revealed that of those using social networking sites, 87% have their full name and 38% their date of birth on their profile. A further 27% have their education history online and 26% do the same with their work history. These figures are baffling when ICO research shows that 95% consider their personal information 'quite' or 'very' valuable. It seems that common sense evaporates especially when people go online!"

Munroe concludes, "We applaud any initiatives designed to increase awareness of the value of personal information and how consumers can shield themselves from the risks of fraud. Our research shows that 30% of individuals we surveyed store their PIN or password on an electronic device such as a PC or blackberry and 22% access bank and credit card information online at work, making them vulnerable to fraudsters. People don't realise how easy it is to give away vital data, so we urge them to think carefully about how they can keep it safe and look after the health of their financial information."

The Personal Information Healthcheck is available at www.ico.gov.uk/infohealthcheck

*Survey conducted amongst 590 Equifax customers – July 2008

For interviews with Neil Munroe or further press information please contact: Elinor Puzey, Louise Fowler, Cecile Stearn or Wendy Harrison at HSL on 020 8977 9132 / Fax: 020 8977 5200 or Email: elinor@harrisonsadler.com