It's definitely worth taking the time to set up a credit freeze with the three big agencies (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax). Initially setting it up is a pain in the butt and is rage-inducing, as you have to provide a bunch of personal data when the whole problem in the first place is that they're careless with your data.
However, once you've got it set up, it's very easy to freeze and unfreeze them. Just keep all the URLs, usernames, and passwords in a secure note somewhere, and any time you need to apply for credit, unfreeze them for a day or a week.
I used to have all sorts of identity theft problems (people taking out credit in my name) but freezing my credit has solved it.
Experian: https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html
TransUnion: https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze
Equifax: https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/cred...
I truly hate these companies but holding my nose and going through the process was worthwhile and I'd recommend it to anyone.
However, once you've got it set up, it's very easy to freeze and unfreeze them. Just keep all the URLs, usernames, and passwords in a secure note somewhere, and any time you need to apply for credit, unfreeze them for a day or a week.
I used to have all sorts of identity theft problems (people taking out credit in my name) but freezing my credit has solved it.
Experian: https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html
TransUnion: https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze
Equifax: https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/cred...
I truly hate these companies but holding my nose and going through the process was worthwhile and I'd recommend it to anyone.