Hello Everyone,

 

This month we continue our Craigslist series with a look at Property Rental Scams. We've also got the latest info on the Equifax Data Breach and how to protect your Social Security account if your personal info was exposed.

 

As a bonus we've included a copy of the Florida Department of Consumer Affairs "Hurricane Irma Resource Guide" containing links and information about valuable resources on everything from disaster recovery, tenant rights, charities, contractors and how to file a complaint.

 

Equifax: A Word of Caution

There is no need to panic over the Equifax data breach. However, credit files contain a level of personal information that goes beyond identity theft, and could potentially allow criminals access social security accounts and file fraudulent IRS returns.

 

I'd encourage you to visit the Federal Trade Commission's Equifax webpagefor instructions on finding out if your information was exposed and tips to protect yourself. Then visit the Social Security Administration's "My Social Security Account" pageand either create an account (before the hackers do) or update the password of your existing account. Some extra effort now could help you avoid a lot of headaches later.

 

Thank you for subscribing and I wish you and your family a safe and Happy Halloween!

 

October Monthly Brief