[tbrock]

I'm very worried about this.

I've done a lot to try and build my credit and protect my identity by restricting the information I give out. Now I can do nothing to protect it now besides hope someone doesn't target me.

Anyone have ideas on how to ensure an identity is not stolen?

[ReidZB]

You can use a credit freeze: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0497-credit-freeze-faq...

> Also known as a security freeze, this tool lets you restrict access to your credit report, which in turn makes it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. That’s because most creditors need to see your credit report before they approve a new account. If they can’t see your file, they may not extend the credit.

I've never done this, but it sounds effective - although if you want to open another line of credit, you'll have to temporarily suspend the freeze.

[jjeaff]

It's not really effective. It can help, but a surprisingly large number of businesses will actually never actually run your credit. They will just keep your information on file and then when the scammer doesn't pay the loan, they start reporting the delinquency to the credit reporting agencies. And in that case, the freeze doesn't apply.

[itodd]

You also have to pay Equifax $10 to do this. Insane, right?

[dublinben]

That sounds like extortion to me. Equifax are running a protection racket.

[jjeaff]

There is only one solution and that is identity theft insurance.

All other solutions that purport to protect your credit are futile. Although I think some are now offering insurance as part of their guarantee.

I use Zander identity theft insurance. If my identity is ever stolen, they are supposed to take over all the hassles of getting me right. As well as up to a million dollars in damages including legal fees if necessary.

I have heard good things from customers who had their identity stolen. But I can't personally vouch for how well their recovery services work since I havent experienced a theft yet.

[robert_foss]

Move somewhere which has a reasonable personal identity scheme.