Halpin to Host Cyber Security Seminar Following Equifax Data Breach

EAST MOLINE, Ill. – To help local residents learn how to protect their personal information in the event of a data breach, state Rep. Mike Halpin, D-Rock Island, is hosting a free seminar with the Illinois Attorney General’s office on Tuesday, Oct. 17 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the East Moline Library, located at 740 16th Ave. in East Moline.

“Recently we’ve seen more frequent instances of people’s data being potentially compromised because of a company’s security failures,” Halpin said. “When this does occur, it’s important for consumers to be aware of the steps they can take to protect themselves from additional account identity theft.”

Halpin will welcome an expert from the Illinois Attorney General’s office who will discuss tips to help residents protect themselves against criminals seeking to extract their personal information online. Halpin will be available to help answer questions and provide an update on legislation under consideration in Springfield, including new legislation he is sponsoring that would prevent reporting agencies from charging fees to consumers who wish to freeze their credit report.

“My legislation would increase consumers’ access to resources if their personal information has been hacked.” Halpin said. “Identity theft is a devastating crime, and we should be doing all that we can to equip people with tools to protect themselves.”

For more information or to RSVP, please contact Halpin’s full-time constituent service office at 309-558-3612 or at rephalpin@gmail.com.