![]() ![]() If you choose, you may also request a security freeze by calling our automated line at 1-80 (NY residents please call 1-80) or submitted your request in writing to: The easiest and fastest way to place a security freeze on your Equifax credit file is via our online process found at the following link. Some additional credit freeze information is below. The credit freeze does not allow access to the credit file by any new creditor unless the owner unfreezes the account. In my opinion, a credit freeze is a great option for children under the age of 18 (great for kids who have a SSN but won’t need credit for several years) and the elderly who no longer desire credit. The cost of a freeze varies but is normally $5 or less to freeze/unfreeze at each bureau. So, if you don’t have the need for a lot of credit transactions, a credit freeze might be a good idea. ![]() Access to freeze/unfreeze your account requires an online account with the credit bureau and a PIN (from 6-10 digits) that you set up when you freeze your account. This normally takes about 15 minutes and can be done online. The negatives to this are that you must unfreeze your credit if you decide you need a loan or a new credit based relationship. A credit freeze can be enabled at all the credit bureaus (TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian) and basically freezes all access to your credit information. financing a mortgage, vehicle, etc.) then freezing your credit is one of the best ways to help increase the security and accessibility of that information. A second option is consider a Credit Freeze: If you are not actively using/accessing your personal credit score (i.e.Most will also help in the recovery after you have been a victim of identity theft. Those programs can cost between $10-$25 per month and will send you updates and alerts if someone is accessing your credit information. An identity theft program is especially good if you do a lot of transactions online or need to apply for or use credit fairly often. ![]() The consumer advocate listed the top 10 Identity Theft programs and I’ve attached a link to that site if you are interested.Īdditionally, here are a few things to consider: Many of you have asked about the value of purchasing an identity monitoring software such as Lifelock or Identity Guard. If you need help, let one of our Rock Star Bankers show you how! At Stone Bank locking/unlocking is instantaneous so it is a great security feature. We also recommend keeping the card locked unless you need it. We recommend using a Bank (such as Stone Bank!) that gives you instant access to lock and unlock your debit card. For instance, if a thief in New York has your debit card information, he/she might try to make a charge via an internet site that doesn’t require a CCV or a PIN number……if you have the ability to lock your card, the hacker can’t make that charge. This prevents your debit card information from being used to make a purchase. Many major banks (and definitely Stone Bank) can provide you the ability to lock your debit card. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |