SunTrust Banks is offering free identity protection through Experian IDnotify for all current and new consumer clients at no cost on an ongoing basis following the suspected theft of the personal information of an estimated 1.5 million customers by a former employee.

Last week, SunTrust became aware of the potential theft of information from some of its contact lists. Although the investigation is ongoing, SunTrust is proactively notifying approximately 1.5 million clients that certain information, such as name, address, phone number and certain account balances may have been exposed. The contact lists did not include personally identifying information, such as social security number, account number, PIN, user ID, password or driver’s license information. SunTrust is also working with outside experts and coordinating with law enforcement.

“Ensuring personal information security is fundamental to our purpose as a company of advancing financial well-being,” said Bill Rogers, SunTrust chairman and CEO. “We apologize to clients who may have been affected by this. We have heightened our monitoring of accounts and increased other security measures. While we have not identified significant fraudulent activity, we will reinforce our promise to clients that they will not be held responsible for any loss on their accounts as a result.”

The IDnotify product by Experian is being offered to customers in addition to existing SunTrust security protocols: ongoing monitoring of accounts, FICO score program, alerts, tools and zero liability fraud protection.