Veterans Affairs Secretary James Nicholson, right, and Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, answer reporters questions at the Justice Department in Washington, Monday, May 22, 2006 to discuss stolen personal data of U.S. veterans. AP
Stolen Data Story aired: Tuesday, May 23, 2006
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs says an electronic data file containing the names, birth dates and Social Security numbers of 26 and a half million veterans has been stolen. Apparently, a government computer analyst brought the file to his home, from which it was stolen during a burglary earlier this month.
The theft is the largest unauthorized release of Social Security numbers ever, leaving veterans around the country worried that they could become the victims of identity theft.
According to the VA, the information that was lost includes names of all vets discharged after 1975. The VA has set up a phone number to which vets can direct their concerns, as well as a website for further information.
For more information contact:
Toll-free number: 800-FED-INFO (800-333-4636). Web site: www.firstgov.gov.
Guests:
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