Your credit report is one of the most important pieces of your financial puzzle. It includes information about your credit history and accounts, which is used by lenders to determine your creditworthiness. That’s why it’s so important to protect your credit report from fraud and identity theft. If you want to know more about credit report fraud protection you may visit Watch Your Pocket.
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Here are some steps you can take to protect your credit report:
1. Check your credit report regularly. This is the best way to spot any suspicious activity or errors. You are entitled to one free credit report per year from each of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). You can request your free report at annualcreditreport.com.
2. Place a fraud alert on your file. This will notify creditors that they should take extra steps to verify your identity before extending new credit in your name. You can place a fraud alert by contacting one of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion).
3. Review your account statements carefully and report any suspicious activity to your lender immediately. This includes unauthorized charges or withdrawals, as well as strange account activity such as strange address changes or new accounts opened in your name without your knowledge.
4. Keep a close eye on public records for any changes made in your name, such as a change of address or a new filing for bankruptcy protection. These changes could be signs that someone is using your identity without your permission. You can check public records for any changes by visiting your local courthouse or county recorder's office.