Mississippi Sues Experian for Alleged Data Breaches

The US state of Mississippi is suing Experian over allegations that the firm routinely violates consumer data protection laws.

Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood (pictured) filed the complaint against Experian Information Solutions, accusing the company of including 'error-riddled' data in the credit files of millions of Americans, which threatens their ability to obtain loans, and causes problems with employment-related background checks and government security clearances. According to the lawsuit, Experian has also incorrectly reported that some consumers are listed on a federal terrorism watch list.

In addition, Hood complains that Experian does not provide a simple way for consumers to correct any data errors, doesn't re-investigate consumer disputes, and doesn't provide consumers with their full credit file.

So far, Experian and a spokesman from industry body the Consumer Data Industry Association have declined to discuss the case, or answer questions relating to the quality of the company's data.