Stolen VA Records Include Phone Numbers & Addresses

The Veterans Administration (VA) just reported that records stolen earlier this month on 26.5 million veterans not only included Social Security numbers and birthdates but also phone numbers and addresses. The electronic data related to everyone discharged from the military since 1975 according to Veterans Affairs Secretary Jim Nicholson.

The VA has set up a manned call center that veterans may call to get information about this situation and learn more about consumer identity protections. That toll free number is 1-800-FED INFO (1-800-333-4636). The call center will operate from 8 am to 9 pm (EDT), Monday-Saturday.

All affected veterans should pay close attention to their personal finances and report any signs of suspicious activity or possible identity theft. It is completely unacceptable that any individuals could access this highly personal information. Congress will hold hearings on this issue to prevent future incidients of stolen records.