Equifax's controversial handling of a massive data breach is starkly similar to the aftermath of a much earlier incident involving another Georgia based company.

The other company, then known as ChoicePoint, was once part of Atlanta-based Equifax.

Channel 2 Consumer Advisor Clark Howard has the steps you need to take now to keep your identity from being stolen.

The parallels raise questions about disconnects between businesses that are breached and consumers harmed by exposure of their sensitive personal information.

In both cases, Congress is talking tough.

Find out more on the surprising similarities, in my latest Unofficial Business column on MyAJC.com.

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AJC Unofficial Business columnist Matt Kempner offers you a unique look at the business scene in metro Atlanta and beyond. You'll find more on myAJC.com, including these columns:

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BioTouch, a company that manufactures medical testing kits, announced an expansion to its Columbus operations in December 2025. This is a courtesy photo of BioTouch's sample collection products. (Courtesy of BioTouch)

Credit: Courtesy of BioTouch

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Ceudy Gutierrez reads a book to her 2-year-old son, Matias, at their home in Buford, GA, on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Ceudy Gutierrez is struggling to make ends meet for herself and her three young kids following her husband’s ICE arrest earlier this fall. (Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez