Shell (NYSE: RDS-B) Warns Employees Of ID Theft Risk Caused By IT Contractor

Shell Oil Co. is warning (click here for link to notification) U.S. based staff that a database containing the names, dates of birth, and social security numbers (SSN) for former and current employees was misused by an IT contractor. 

The allegation is that the IT contractor filed false unemployment claims using the identities of four Shell employees.  Shell has terminated its contract with the IT contract firm in question and is cooperating with local and State of Texas authorities to completely investigate this fraud incident.

Shell should be applauded for their prompt action to investigate and find ways of mitigating the impact of this incident.  Hopefully those guilty of conducting this fraud successfully prosecuted for their egregious breach of trust.