Data-breach victims can freeze their credit reports

Washington residents whose personal information was stored on a stolen Boeing laptop can take steps to protect themselves by requesting a credit report security freeze or placing a fraud alert with the credit-reporting agencies.

"A credit freeze is the strongest option available to data breach victims in our state and is an important tool to block identity thieves from opening unauthorized accounts or loans in your name," said Attorney General Rob McKenna in a news statement. "Individuals should be aware that they, too, will not be able to open new credit while a freeze is in place."

The laptop containing information of hundreds of thousands of Boeing Co. employees was stolen during the first week of December, and the aerospace company began informing those potentially affected by the theft in a company e-mail Wednesday.

Consumer advocates say it's a good idea to monitor your credit and take steps to protect yourself against identity theft.

You can request that a freeze be placed on their credit report, which blocks access to your credit report. But you won't be allowed to open new credit while the freeze is in place (though you can request a temporary lift).

A less restrictive option is to place a fraud alert on your credit report for 90 days. When someone tries to obtain credit in your name, the creditor will be told that you may be a victim of fraud and then call you before extending credit.

It was unclear whether the data was encrypted. No banking or credit card information was stored in those files, but the company will provide free three-year credit monitoring for employees whose personal information was compromised.

TO REQUEST A FREEZE:

1. Write to each of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and Trans Union). Include information including your full name, Social Security number, address and birth date. (Keep copies of your request letters for your records).

2. Include the following with your request:

A copy of your notice from Boeing as proof that your information was potentially compromised; a copy of the Boeing's police report (Boeing will provide a copy of its police report to individuals who wish to obtain a freeze; call 1-866-473-2016);

proof of address, such as copy of a utility bill or bank statement;

Experian also requires a copy of a government-issued identification card, such as a driver's license or military ID.

3. Send your request and documentation by certified mail (required and beneficial for your protection) to each of the following addresses:

Equifax Security Freeze; P.O. Box 105788; Atlanta, GA 30348

Experian Security Freeze; P.O. Box 9554; Allen, TX 75013

Trans Union Security Freeze; P.O. Box 6790; Fullerton, CA 92834-6790

TO REQUEST A FRAUD ALERT

With one phone call, you can place a fraud alert on your three credit reports for 90 days. Call one of the bureaus listed below and that bureau will share the information with the other two. All three credit reports will be sent to you free of charge.