Press Release
February 22, 2008
Susan Davis Troubled by Lack of Progress in Protecting Personal Information
GAO report requested by Davis finds ID theft still a risk
WASHINGTON – Federal Departments and agencies are still reporting shortcomings when it comes to protecting the valuable personal information of U.S. citizens, according to a comprehensive report issued this week.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that the personal information of millions of Americans is at risk at several federal agencies. The GAO conducted the study at the request of Congresswoman Susan Davis after a major security breach at the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2006.
“I was particularly concerned after the VA breach because thousands of veterans live in the 53rd District and in the San Diego region,” Davis said. “The breach also raised larger questions whether the federal government was doing enough to protect the personal information of all Americans stored at the various agencies.”
The GAO in addition to separate audits found that a majority of agencies reported inadequate security measures. In fact, 17 of 24 agencies analyzed showed weaknesses in data security.
“The findings are not encouraging,” Davis added. “The reports suggest that data breaches are likely to continue.”
The GAO also reported that data breaches are increasing. In 2005, 3,569 data breaches occurred at federal agencies. The number rose to over 5,146 in 2006.
“It is clear that we are not doing enough,” Davis said. “Congress needs to work with the Executive Branch to ensure that the protection of personal data becomes a high priority.”
Davis has been working on identity theft issues since chairing Committee on Consumer Protection, Government Efficiency, and Economic Development in the California State Assembly.