WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
Monitor Your Accounts: Under U.S. law, a consumer is entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus, Equifax, Experian, & TransUnion. To order a free credit report, go to www.annualcreditreport.com or call toll-free, 1-877-322-8228.
Protecting Your Identity: You have the right to add a free fraud alert to your credit file. It's your shield for 1 year, and businesses must verify your identity before extending credit. If you're an identity theft victim, you're entitled to get an extended fraud alert, which lasts 7 years.
Secure Your Credit: Instead of a fraud alert, you can opt for a 'credit freeze.' which blocks credit bureaus from sharing your report without your permission. While it safeguards against unauthorized credit, loans, and services, it may also slow down or prevent future credit approvals, so it is important to lift the 'credit freeze' before financing any large purchase. Remember, you can't be charged for placing or lifting a credit freeze under federal law.
To request a 'credit freeze' individuals may need to provide some or all of the following information:
1. Full Name
2. Social Security Number
3. Date of Birth
4. Addresses for the prior two or 5 years
5. Proof of current address, such as a current utility bill or telephone bill.
6. A legible photocopy of a government-issued identification card (state driver's license or ID card, etc.); and
7. A copy of the police report, investigative report, or complaint to a law enforcement agency concerning identity theft if they are a victim of identity theft.
TO PLACE A CREDIT FREEZE OR FRAUD ALERT, CONTACT THE MAJOR CREDIT BUREAUS TO SAFEGUARD YOUR FINANCIAL SECURITY.
