Identity Theft Update - How to Place a Credit Freeze

Many South Carolina residents enrolled in free credit monitoring service in 2012 due to the cyber attack last year at the Department of Revenue.  As a reminder and convenience, AARP South Carolina offers you the following information as a servvice.

You can place a FREE credit freeze and thaw on your personal credit history as a South Carolina resident.  To do so click onto:

Experian

Equfax

TransUnion

In the search bar of each site type “South Carolina Credit Freeze.”  This will help you bypass products and services that are for purchase.

You can also call the three credit agencies and place a freeze through their automated systems

Experian 1-888-397-3742

Equifax 1-800-525-6285

TransUnion 1-800-680-7289

When needed, you can lift or “thaw” the credit freeze by contacting each agency and use the unique PIN that is assigned to you.  There is no charge for this service nor does it affect your credit score as an inquiry.

Also -

Request a free copy of your credit report through the Federal Trade Commission’s website  or call 1-877-322-8228.  You are entitled to one free credit report from each of the three agencies once a year.  You may choose to order one report every four months.

If you feel you have been a victim of an identity theft, contact your local law enforcement office.