The Fourth Credit Freeze You Missed: A Security Guide

Many people know about placing credit freezes with the three major credit bureaus. Still, the article explains that there is a fourth reporting agency that can also affect loan approvals and identity theft risk. Failing to freeze this additional file may leave an opening for fraudsters to exploit, especially as data breaches continue to expose sensitive personal information.

For retirees and those nearing retirement, identity theft can be particularly disruptive. Unauthorized accounts or fraudulent loans can damage credit, delay financial transactions, and create significant stress at a time when stability matters most. Taking the extra step to freeze all relevant credit files helps reduce the risk of new accounts being opened without your knowledge. It is also wise to periodically review your credit reports, use strong account passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication on financial accounts.

Protecting your credit profile is not just about borrowing power. It is about safeguarding your financial foundation. A few proactive measures today can prevent costly and time-consuming problems later, helping you stay focused on your long-term goals with greater confidence.

You can read the full article here.