Connecticut insurance office orders new data breach requirements

The Connecticut Department of Insurance (CDI) recently instituted new rules regarding data breaches that affect its consumers.

Now, life insurance companies and other providers will have to notify the department within five days in the event of a data breach. The CDI said one of its goals is to make sure it can monitor the situation and guarantee consumers are protected.

"The department's concern is to make certain that in addition to minimizing these incidents, licensees and registrants react quickly and affirmatively to let affected Connecticut consumers know that they may be at risk and what is being done to protect sensitive and confidential information," CDI said in a notification.

Life insurance companies and other businesses may have a bevy of information on their clients, including Social Security numbers or government-issued identifications. These items, with others, can be used to commit identity theft, which can damage a consumer's credit.

While businesses may be required to clean up these messes, consumers also have a role in protecting their identity and information. Along with shredding any unneeded documents, checking a credit report or bank statement can uncover suspicious activity.