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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Travis Kelley, executive vice president of technology at Cordele-based farm equipment supplier Ag Technologies, demonstrates technology from Duluth-based AGCO Corp,  Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez

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A native of Columbus and a fine arts graduate of Clark Atlanta, Amy Sherald was chosen as the official portrait artist of former first lady Michelle Obama. On the same week that the portrait was unveiled at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, it was also announced that Sherald was awarded the High Museum's 2018 David C. Driskell Prize. (Andrew Harnik/AP)

Credit: Andrew Harnik