Podcast- Credit Reports Data Breach and Identity Theft

Welcome to today’s podcast. Today’s podcast subject is about a massive data breach. It is one of the most significant breaches in history where emails, phone numbers, and even Social Security numbers have been compromised. I have even noticed an uptick in spammy emails. So, let’s focus on what you can do to protect yourself against identity theft and use your credit report to provide an extra layer of protection.

Listen to the podcast.

Tips to Protect Yourself from a Data Breach

One of the things I do with emails that I suspect are spam is click reply. If the email doesn’t match the company name, it’s probably a phishing email. For example, suppose you get a free gift card offer from Walmart. A spam email address will have a long string of letters as part of the email address. If that happens, it’s fake.

A simple tip is to avoid clicking links in an email. Just go straight to the website. For example, if your bank is Wells Fargo or you have a Capital One credit card, skip the email links. Just go straight to the login page.

Using Your Credit Report to Protect Against Identity Theft

You are entitled to a free credit report every twelve months by law. Because of this data breach, I checked my credit report. I’m all good, but you should check yours. You can access information on obtaining your credit report via this link. Make sure to get your credit report from each credit bureau: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

Putting a Credit Freeze on Your Credit Report

A credit freeze is another quick and easy tip against data breaches and identity theft. This prevents identity thieves from applying for new credit since it’s locked.

While reviewing your credit report, compare Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. It’s common for one to have an error that others don’t. I’ve had my share of mistakes listed on my credit report. Once, while car shopping, I was told by the sales agent that I had five foreclosures in the Florida Keys, which is located in Monroe County. While I’ve had more rumrunners in the Keys than I wish to admit, I would know if I owned property there.

So, if you find an error in your credit report, the dispute process is simple and can be done online with each credit bureau.

Please take steps to protect your identity. I’ve represented clients who have had to file for bankruptcy because it was easier to do than deal with the stolen identity issues. A few minutes invested could save you dozens of hours in headaches.

Colleges and universities can purchase my bankruptcy law textbook directly from Routledge Publishing. For paralegals and students buying single copies, you can do so via Amazon Books. To access my YouTube channel, click this link. Podcast archives are available via this link.

See below for additional categories.

• Bankruptcy
• Your Wallet

Please note that the information on this site does not constitute legal advice and should be considered for informational purposes only.

This transcript has been edited and summarized for clarity.