Buzz
Do you recall the Equifax security breach? If you set a 90-day fraud alert on your credit report, it's likely nearing its expiration.
Experts suggest placing a fraud alert on your account to make it harder for fraudsters to misuse your stolen details. However, this is only a temporary solution—not a foolproof safeguard. While some agencies might verify your identity with a few personal questions after detecting the alert, others might not. Take extra steps to protect your data.
Ensure Your Credit is Safe
Though the Equifax breach has faded from headlines, it's essential to remember that it impacted 143 million people. Hackers didn’t just target easily changed details like credit card information—they also had access to sensitive data like Social Security numbers.
That's why taking proactive steps to safeguard your online security is crucial. Freeze your credit reports with all three agencies. While there is a fee to unfreeze them (typically between $3 and $10, depending on your state), the cost is minimal compared to the long-term hassle and financial burden of dealing with identity theft.
If you haven’t done so already, request a credit report from the major agencies to look for any inconsistencies. Additionally, consider signing up for a credit monitoring service. Research the best option for you—these services monitor any credit activity connected to your name.
Look Beyond Your Credit Report
Since the hackers also had access to Social Security numbers, they may cause damage that doesn’t immediately show up on your credit report. Scammers could potentially: steal your Social Security benefits or tax return, open utility accounts in your name, take payday loans, commit insurance fraud, exploit your Medicare benefits, or access your 401(k) or other investments.
For this reason, some experts recommend considering identity theft protection services. These services can track loan applications and illegal dark web activity. Keep an eye on your bank accounts and investment portfolios as well.
Keep in mind that scammers have no time limit on when they can exploit the stolen information. Protecting your identity should now be a standard part of your daily routine.
