Brian and Bo investigate identity theft protection, and credit monitoring industries, as well as provide you with alternative methods to identity security that is available. This week’s episode is a must-listen and a great resource to keep an eye on your credit score, report, and security.
Brian reviews credit monitoring and protection industry while reviewing The Consumer Reports article Don’t get taken guarding your ID. The article points out our stance on these “services” and highlights how easy it is to monitor your credit yourself for free. If you are worried about credit fraud the single best way to protect yourself is through a “credit freeze,” and when you need credit you can “thaw” your credit within 15 minutes. If you are doing all of these things already and want a snapshot of how good you are at protecting your identity IDSafety.net has a quiz that is a great resource.
Brian and Bo also give you resources to access your credit scores from all 3 credit bureaus:
Transunion: www.creditkarma.com
Experian: www.creditsesame.com
Equifax: With certain discover credit cards, discover will print your score on your Equifax monthly statement.
As always, you can download your credit report once per year per bureau through www.annualcreditreport.com. The guys also give you an outlet to protect your security when filing your taxes. The IRS has implemented measures to help safeguard your identity through their IP PIN program.
