With the recent news that hackers claim to have stolen every American’s Social Security number, protecting your identity and credit score is more important than ever. As highlighted in a Los Angeles Times article, these breaches underscore the need for proactive measures like setting up a security freeze on your credit.
A security freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it difficult for criminals to commit fraud by opening new credit accounts in your name. However, it’s essential to remember that this freeze can also impact legitimate activities—something I learned the hard way. When I recently tried to add a new line to my cell phone plan, I was unexpectedly denied due to "bad credit." It wasn’t until later that I realized it was because I had a credit freeze in place, not because of any actual credit issues.
Taking steps like setting up a security freeze is a critical part of your overall cybersecurity and fraud prevention strategy. It helps safeguard your financial security and ensures your credit score remains intact, even in the face of massive data breaches.
3. Request the Freeze:
Receive Confirmation: After setting up the freeze, you’ll receive a confirmation with a PIN or password. Keep this secure as you’ll need it to lift the freeze if necessary.
Monitor Your Credit: Even with a freeze in place, continue to monitor your credit regularly through free tools or credit monitoring services. This helps ensure that your identity remains protected and your credit score stays intact.
In today’s digital age, protecting your identity is more crucial than ever. Setting up a security freeze is a simple yet powerful step to safeguard your credit and financial future. Don’t wait—take action today to ensure your personal information is secure. For more information on the recent breaches, check out the full articles on USA Today and Los Angeles Times.
