Set Up Identity Theft Monitoring
Why
Identity theft monitoring services help detect potential fraudulent use of your personal information. These services can alert you to suspicious activities, potentially preventing or minimizing the impact of identity theft. While not foolproof, they provide an additional layer of protection for your personal and financial data.
Action
Research identity theft monitoring services:
- Popular options include IdentityForce, Identity Guard, LifeLock, and Experian IdentityWorks
- Compare features, pricing, and customer reviews
Sign up and configure your chosen service:
- Download the service’s mobile app for real-time alerts
- Enable notifications for suspicious activities
Review your credit reports:
- Many services offer free credit reports; review them for accuracy
Familiarize yourself with the recovery services:
- Understand what assistance is available if identity theft occurs
Set a reminder:
- Schedule regular checks of your monitoring dashboard (e.g., monthly)
Keep your contact information updated:
- Ensure the service can reach you if suspicious activity is detected
Remember
While identity theft monitoring can be helpful, it’s not a guarantee against identity theft. Continue to practice good security habits, regularly review your financial statements, and be cautious about sharing personal information.