1. You are entitled to a FREE copy of your credit report at annualcreditreport.com or by calling 877-322-8228
2. You may place a FREEZE on your credit which locks your credit file against anyone trying to open a new account in your name.. Consumers Union says “when a security freeze is placed at all three major credit bureaus, an identity thief cannot open a new account because the potential creditor or seller of services will not be able to check the credit file. When the consumer (you) is applying for credit, you lift the credit freeze using a PIN so legitimate applications for credit or services can be processed.” This is accomplished by calling the credit bureaus and taking the necessary simple steps. Once done, replace the freeze.
3. Consumers may also OPT OUT of unsolicited credit card or insurance offers via www.optoutprescreen.com or by calling 888-5OPT-OUT which will block most unsolicited applications and reduce the incidence of identity theft.
Courtesy of Krebs on Security.
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