Rep. Maloney Statement on Large Consumer Data Breach

WASHINGTON, DC – It has been revealed that computer systems were hacked at TJX, the operator of several large retail stores. As a result, data of consumers has been stolen, although the extent of the breach has not yet been divulged. Following the reports of this that may have affected millions of consumers, Rep. Carolyn Maloney (NY-14), a senior member of the House Financial Services Committee, released the following statement:

“As digital commerce continues to increase, we will continue to see major data breaches and identity theft. We need laws that catch up to that digital age reality. I intend to help make data security a priority in the 110th Congress.

“I certainly support the strong state laws that allow everyone to freeze their credit reports when they learn of a data breach like this one. It is a necessary tool for consumers in the 21st century. Right now, the affected customers in my state of New York can use this protection, but there are customers in many other states that are not protected. I am a strong proponent and sponsor of previous legislation providing for universal file freeze, and I will continue to hold that position.”

Background                                                                                                   

In the 109th Congress, Rep. Maloney introduced legislation to implement universal file freeze, and she was prepared to offer her bill as an amendment to a larger data security bill that would have rolled-back state file freeze laws (http://maloney.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1132&Itemid=61 ). The larger data security bill never made it to the House floor.

###