November 06 2023
Welcome back to our "Tips and Tricks Tuesday" series, which highlights articles around a monthly theme. November's theme is "How to Be a Better Me." Read on for tips and tricks on being your best self:
In an age where our personal information is more vulnerable than ever, it's crucial to take proactive steps to safeguard your financial well-being and personal privacy. Particularly when it's FREE and takes less than hour! One powerful tool in your arsenal against identity theft is placing a credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. In this article, we will guide you through the process of placing a credit freeze and provide you with essential tips to fortify your financial security.
A credit freeze, or security freeze, is a FREE option that lets you limit unauthorized access to your credit report, preventing others from opening accounts in your name. You'll need to "thaw" or lift the freeze each time you apply for credit; however, many people feel the benefits outweigh the small inconvenience. There are also paid credit "lock" subscriptions available including a number of identity theft protection tools. Overall, both credit freezes and credit locks can be effective tools for protecting your identity and the choice between the two depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Contact the Three Major Credit Bureaus: Visit the official websites of Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to initiate the credit freeze process. You can also call their respective toll-free numbers or request it by mail.
Provide Necessary Information: You will need to provide personal information such as your full name, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. Be prepared to verify your identity.
Receive Your PIN: Once the freeze is in place, each bureau will provide you with a unique PIN or password. Keep these in a secure location as you will need them to temporarily lift or remove the freeze.
Monitor Your Credit: Regularly check your credit reports for any suspicious activity. You can still access your own credit reports while the freeze is in place.
At a minimum, freezing the three major bureaus should be a top priority; however, there are a few lesser-known organizations worth considering.
Don't be one of the 40 million U.S. adults affected by identity theft every year. It can take months and years to fully recover financially from identity theft – don't wait until it's too late! By taking these steps to protect your credit, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to identity theft.
TrustFunds cares about the financial health of you, your business, and your clients! Share TrustFunds handy Protect Yourself from Identity Theft Flyer with your colleagues, friends, and family.
TrustFunds is dedicated to simplifying, securing, and bridging digital gaps in the real estate industry, by streamlining the earnest money process. To learn more about TrustFunds and its services, please visit their website at trustfunds.us.com.