Press Release

FRAUD ALERT FOR 21 MILLION HOTMAIL CUSTOMERS

IDENTITY FRAUD EXPERT AVAILABLE FOR COMMENT

London, 6th October 2009 - It has been reported that up to 21 million people who use the Hotmail email service could potentially be at risk of fraud after a massive security breach where passwords were acquired illegally.

If you are planning to run a piece on this fraud threat, Neil Munroe, External Affairs Director for the ID fraud specialist, Equifax, is available to provide expert comment.

"Once again, consumers are going to be wondering how this might affect their personal details - and whether they should be concerned about having their identity stolen" said Neil Munroe. "There is a fear that information from Hotmail accounts could include people's credit card account details - and this could give fraudsters an easy way to make purchases in their name, or even set up new accounts using the victim's identity.

"It's crucial that, as advised by the police, Hotmail users, change their passwords immediately. But they should also check their various financial accounts for any unauthorised activity or new accounts set up in their name."

The Equifax Credit Report is available by simply logging onto www.equifax.co.uk and offers individuals access to their credit information for the first 30 days free, enabling them to see what lenders see to assess new credit applications. The Equifax Credit Report also provides weekly alerts of significant changes to any accounts, allowing individuals to spot signs of fraud.

If the customer does not cancel before the end of the 30 Day Free Trial, the service will continue at £6.99 per month, giving them unlimited online access to their credit information and expert advice on managing their finances.

Neil Munroe has a wealth of knowledge in the ID fraud arena and can provide expert commentary and advice on the subject. As past Chair of the Identity Fraud Consumer Awareness Group, an industry wide non-competitive group focused on increasing public understanding of ID fraud and theft, he can provide comment on the issues and risks as well as giving advice on how to avoid falling victim and what to do if you do fall victim. He has appeared on a number of high profile broadcast media.

ENDS

To arrange interviews with Neil Munroe 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