How to freeze your credit after National Public Data breach

How to freeze your credit after National Public Data breach

So far, 2024 has been a huge year for data breaches. There had already been more than 1 billion personal records compromised before the National Public Data breach that has been making headlines, according to Michael Bruemmer, head of global data breach resolution at consumer credit reporting company Experian. National Public Data, a background check … Read more

Was my Social Security number stolen? National Public Data breach questions

Was my Social Security number stolen? National Public Data breach questions

Glowimages | Getty Images You may have never heard of National Public Data, yet your personal information may have been compromised in the company’s recent massive data breach. The background check company, which is owned by Jerico Pictures Inc., recently released details of the breach after a proposed class action lawsuit alleged 2.9 billion personal … Read more

Identity theft of America’s youngest generation is on the rise

Identity theft of America’s youngest generation is on the rise

Most parents would take herculean steps to protect their children. But many overlook a relatively simple way to help shore up a child’s financial security: freezing the minor’s credit.  This could be especially important in the wake of a major breach in which the Social Security numbers of myriad Americans might be for sale on … Read more

Raising your credit score can help you save $92 per month: report

Raising your credit score can help you save  per month: report

With consumer prices still rising due to higher inflation, there is one way to save money that you may be overlooking: raising your credit score. Increasing your score from fair (580 to 669) to very good (740 to 799) may help you save $22,263 over the life of your credit and loans, according to a … Read more

What to know about your credit as student loan bills restart

What to know about your credit as student loan bills restart

D3sign | Moment | Getty Images On-ramp period should protect your credit Generally, failing to make timely payments on debts, including your student loans, can damage your credit. Payment history accounts for 35% of your score, according to FICO. Typically, “missing just one payment can cause your credit score to drop by 50 to 100 … Read more