One of the largest and potentially damaging data breaches had occurred, as the credit-reporting company EQUIFAX was breached.    About 143 million consumers had their addresses, credit card  numbers & possibly Social Security numbers stolen.  Can affect 1/2 of U. S. adult population.  With this information the “bad guys” can get new credit cards, pass a security check for a new job & more.  This is devastating to get a mortgage.  Can haunt you for years!  MORE TO COME.