Personal Information Security

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Overview

This article goes over best practices for protecting personal data and what to do if you believe your data has been compromised.

Recognize a Breach
Secure Your Accounts
Credit Freeze and Fraud Alert
- How to Place a Credit Freeze
- How to Place a Fraud Alert
Report Identity Theft

Recognize a BreachSee More

In order to safeguard your personal data, it's crucial to be able to recognize signs of a potential data breach. Regularly monitor your financial statements and communications from companies or organizations that you have shared personal data with.

Signs that your data may be compromised include:

Unauthorized access or sign-ins
Unexpected changes in account activity
Unfamiliar transactions
Notification from an organization about a potential data breach

Secure Your AccountsSee More

In the event your personal data's privacy has been breached, there are several steps you can take to ensure the safety of your accounts and identity. NOTE: Many of these steps can be done before a data breach occurs to help secure your data.

Update Passwords: Ensure your passwords are robust, incorporating a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdays or names. Be sure to use different passwords for different accounts. To make this process easier, also consider using a secure password manager to keep track of your passwords.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) or Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable MFA or 2FA whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security, requiring not only a password but also a second verification step, like a code sent to your mobile device.
Update Regularly: Keep your software, apps, and operating systems up to date. Developers often release security patches to address vulnerabilities, and staying current helps protect against potential exploits.
Beware of Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing personal information unless you're certain of the source's legitimacy.

Credit Freeze and Fraud AlertSee More

To further protect your financial data and identity, also consider the following actions:

Credit Freeze: Place a credit freeze on your accounts. This restricts access to your credit report, making it challenging for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name.
Fraud Alert: Implement a fraud alert on your credit reports. This notifies creditors that they should take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new accounts. Fraud alerts are typically free and last for a specified duration, but can be renewed.
Regular Credit Monitoring: Subscribe to a credit monitoring service to receive real-time updates on changes to your credit report. This proactive approach allows you to detect and address any suspicious activity promptly.

Note that there are several different credit bureaus that creditors might refer to for your information. A good practice would be to ensure you have accounts created for all three major bureaus, those being: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This way you could use any of the actions above on all three. More in-depth steps for placing a credit freeze or fraud alert can be found below.

How to Place a Credit FreezeSee More

A credit freeze is a powerful tool to protect your financial identity from unauthorized access and potential identity theft. By restricting access to your credit report, you can significantly reduce the risk of fraudulent activities. This guide outlines the steps to implement a credit freeze effectively.

Step 1: Contact Credit Reporting Agencies:

Initiate the credit freeze process by contacting each of the major credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can request a credit freeze online, by phone, or through mail. Be prepared to provide personal information to verify your identity.

Equifax: Equifax Freeze Center
Experian: Experian Security Freeze Center
TransUnion: TransUnion Freeze Center

Step 2: Provide Necessary Information:

Each credit reporting agency will require specific information for identity verification. This typically includes your full name, Social Security number, date of birth, address, and sometimes additional information. Ensure accuracy to avoid delays in the process.

Step 3: Choose Duration and Fees:

Decide the duration for which you want the credit freeze to be in effect. Credit freezes can be temporary or permanent. Additionally, be aware of any associated fees for implementing or lifting a freeze. Some states may have regulations regarding fees, and certain circumstances might warrant fee waivers.

Step 4: Receive Confirmation and Keep Records:

After successfully initiating the credit freeze, the credit reporting agency will provide a confirmation with a unique PIN or password. Keep a record of this information in a secure place, as you'll need it to lift the freeze or make any changes in the future.

Step 5: Lifting or Removing the Freeze:

Should you need to apply for new credit or allow legitimate access to your credit report, you can lift or remove the credit freeze temporarily. Use the PIN or password provided during the freeze initiation process to make these adjustments. Contact the credit reporting agencies for guidance on the specific steps required.

How to Place a Fraud AlertSee More

A fraud alert is a valuable tool to protect yourself from potential identity theft by notifying creditors to take extra precautions when processing credit applications. This guide outlines the steps to set up a fraud alert efficiently.

Step 1: Contact Credit Reporting Agencies:

Initiate the fraud alert process by reaching out to one of the major credit reporting agencies - Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. You only need to contact one agency, as they are required to notify the other two. Choose the agency you prefer, and provide them with your personal information.

Step 2: Choose the Type of Fraud Alert:

There are two main types of fraud alerts: an initial fraud alert, which lasts for 90 days and can be renewed, and an extended fraud alert, which lasts for seven years. Select the type that aligns with your security needs. The initial alert is often recommended as a proactive measure.

Step 3: Provide Necessary Information:

Furnish the credit reporting agency with the required information for identity verification. This typically includes your full name, Social Security number, date of birth, address, and any additional details requested. Ensure accuracy to expedite the process.

Step 4: Receive Confirmation:

Once the fraud alert is set up, the credit reporting agency will provide confirmation along with information about how creditors should proceed. They will include details about your rights as a consumer with an active fraud alert.

Step 5: Monitor Your Accounts:

While the fraud alert is active, monitor your financial accounts and credit reports regularly for any suspicious activity. Being vigilant allows you to detect potential issues promptly.

Step 6: Renew or Remove the Fraud Alert:

If needed, renew the fraud alert after the initial 90-day period. Alternatively, if you believe the threat has passed, you can remove the fraud alert. Contact the credit reporting agency to make these adjustments, and keep a record of any confirmation codes provided.

Report Identity TheftSee More

If you conclude that you may be a victim of identity theft due to a breach of personal data, then another step you should take is to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Reporting To The FTC:

Either visit IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-FTC-HELP
File a FTC Identity Theft report
Create a recovery plan with the FTC

Ater filing an FTC identity theft report, if you have information that could aid in a police investigation, know the thief has used your identity in a police encounter, or an affected party has requested it, you should also file a report with your local law enforcement.

Reporting To Local Law Enforcement:

Obtain a copy of the FTC report
Gather a government- issued ID, proof of address, and proof of identity theft.
Follow your local police department's steps for filling out a police report.