In 2017, Equifax experienced a large data breach that exposed millions of peoples’ sensitive data. Fines, litigation and media uproar ensued. But perhaps most significant was that our government mandated that the big 3 credit bureaus allow consumers to freeze their credit, for free. Previously, the big 3 would charge you a fee for each freeze or thaw you requested.
A credit freeze, also called a security freeze, can help prevent identity theft. It won’t block fraud commited against your existing accounts, but it can help stop thieves from opening new credit cards or loans in your name.
If you want to freeze or thaw your credit report, here’s where to visit at each of the big 3 credit reporting agencies’ websites:
You may also want to consider freezing the credit reports of your children or other people you are responsible for. To learn more, visit any of the 3 freeze links above and read the FAQs!
Leave a Reply