Many consumers are eligible for free credit monitoring. If you aren’t eligible for one of these free offers but breaches like this have you worried, you could instead purchase credit monitoring.
But for everyone, the wisest course is to go beyond monitoring for signs of trouble and proactively defend your credit by freezing it.
Should I Take the Free Monitoring if I’m Eligible?
If your data has been compromised, it doesn’t automatically mean that the identity thieves used your information.
But, once the details and numbers are out there you face a lifetime chance of identity theft.
Freezing your credit is your best defense, but layering on free monitoring may help as well.
Credit monitoring will watch your credit reports and inform you of changes in them. If someone attempts to use your data to open a credit account, you’ll know sooner rather than months or years later when there is more damage and it’s more complicated to undo.
What I Should Do if I’m Not Eligible for Free Monitoring
Monitoring can be bought if you want to. Most credit monitoring companies charge monthly rates that can be as high as $30. Check the programs offered before signing up, when and how you can cancel, and what your rights are if the service doesn’t cover you.
There are 3 steps to protect yourself. First, get a credit freeze. Consider that the strongest protection from criminals accessing your credit without permission.
Second is that check the detailed information on your credit reports. If you find an error on any report, dispute it.
The third is that sign up for a service from a personal finance website or your credit card company that offers free credit scores.
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