( Columbus, Ohio ) - A multi-state investigation is underway to find out the extent of a cyber attack on the confidential files of Nationwide Insurance customers.

Nationwide is based in Columbus, Ohio.

Below is the statement issued by spokeswoman Elizabeth Christopher Giannetti:

Nationwide is working with law enforcement to investigate a criminal attack on a portion of its computer network that contained some personally identifiable information of current, former and prospective Nationwide and Allied Insurance customers. Nationwide is not aware of any misuse of personal information at this time. 

The attack occurred on October 3, 2012 and Nationwide immediately took steps to secure the network. The company hired independent, third-party experts to analyze the impacted data and computer network. This team worked as quickly as possible to identify those impacted and what personal information may be at risk. 

Nationwide has informed state regulators about the intrusion. 

Nationwide is notifying affected individuals by direct mail. Each will be offered free credit monitoring and identity theft protection for one year through Equifax. 

Nationwide has also established a toll-free number for this incident: 1-800-760-1125. 

Thank you.