SONY PSN DATA BREACH UPDATE – FREE CREDIT MONITORING EXTENSION

Sony has agreed to extend its offer for free credit monitoring to July 31, 2011.  Originally, Sony’s offer of free credit monitoring with All Clear ID Plus was available for its customers until June 18.  The credit monitoring is being offered to members of the Play Station Network (PSN) prior to the April data breach.   The credit monitoring program offers web monitoring, alerts, customer service and a $1 million identity theft insurance policy.  You can enroll in the credit monitoring service HERE.

Credit monitoring can be helpful, but the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) can also be a useful tool for victims of fraud or identity theft.  The FCRA gives consumers the right to a free credit report if a consumer believes he is a victim of fraud or identity theft.  Consumer can also place a fraud alert on their credit file with all three nationwide consumer reporting agencies, Experian, Equifax and Trans Union.  The FCRA also gives consumers the right to a free credit report once in a 12 month period and due to adverse action (denied credit or employment).

If you have questions about identity theft or credit disputes, contact consumer protection lawyer Micah Adkins for a free identity theft information kit.