Three Steps for Protecting Your Privacy

South Carolina residents concerned about the recent security breach within the SC   Department of Revenue need to take several steps to protect their privacy.  The State of South Carolina is offering a one-year free credit monitoring service through Experian.

STEP ONE:

In order to enroll in the service, you must do the following:

Log onto this website

Activation code: scdor123 (not case sensitive)

Follow the prompts for information and submit.  You will receive a confirmation email.  You are under no obligation to purchase a service or provide a credit card number. Also you can check the “opt out” box for other promotions and offers.  This will limit your unwanted spam mail as well.

STEP TWO:

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

Experian

Equifax

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 the automated system

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.

STEP THREE:

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.

 

photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosieobeirne/