 TITLE: How to Protect Your Identity and Credit CONTENT: How to Prevent ID Theft\n-----------------------\n*   **Turn on two-factor authentication whenever possible.** This security option is widely available from companies that do business via smartphone apps and websites—which is to say practically all major retailers and financial institutions.  \n    Activating two-factor authentication adds a step to the login process for the apps or website in question: In addition to entering a username and password, you must enter a numerical passcode sent to you via email, text message or robotic voice call. This helps ensure your identity, on the assumption that a crook who gets their hands on your username and password will be much less likely to have access to your phone or email at the same time. Logins will take a few seconds longer, but the extra measure of security is well worth it.\n*   **Change passwords often.** The frequency of data breaches at retailers and e-commerce websites makes it clear that passwords and usernames are vulnerable even at institutions with big cybersecurity infrastructures. You can't do anything to prevent data heists at the companies you work with, but you can limit the \"shelf life\" of stolen passwords by changing them frequently.\n*   **Use a password manager.** While you may know to never store passwords on slips of paper in your wallet and to avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, having to change forgotten passwords on seldom-used sites can be frustrating. A password manager can solve that issue.  \n    The best password managers will keep a running list of all your passwords, and even generate and store random passwords no one would ever guess, making it easier to switch up your passwords often. During your search for a free password manager, look for a product that works with all the devices you use to shop and manage finances online (smartphone, tablet, laptop, etc.).\n*   **Sign up for identity theft protection.** With Experian IdentityWorks℠, for example, you'll get identity theft monitoring and alerts, as well as dark web surveillance. Experian identity theft protection services also include insurance that can cover up to $1 million in financial losses related to identity theft, and the ability to apply and remove a credit lock on your Experian credit report.\n*   **Consider using credit freezes or fraud alerts.** These make it more difficult for fraudsters to secure loans or credit cards in your name. A credit freeze prevents anyone from checking your credit report or credit score (typically the first step creditors will take in reviewing applications for loans or credit cards). A fraud alert requires creditors to verify your identity before processing any application made in your name. Both of these free services make it harder for criminals to seek credit using your identity.\nIn the age of digital commerce and electronic record keeping, cyber criminals are constantly devising new schemes for hijacking personal data and using it to unlock financial holdings. It's critical for all individuals to watch out for unauthorized credit activity. For many, automated credit monitoring and identity theft protection services provide an extra level of caution and care that can safeguard credit and avoid costly, time-consuming remedies to identity theft. END