One way to check to see if your personal information has been compromised is to use an annual credit check. This is a free service. You are allowed to check once every calendar year, without charge. The credit reports can be supplied by Experian, Equifax or TransUnion. Using each of these agencies, it is possible to have a credit check every four month - with staggered reports from each agency.

Identity theft is covert crime. You might not realize, for example, that accounts in your name are being opened in other parts of the country. One way to check is to use the free credit reports. You may be meticulously cautious about safeguarding your personal information. The problem is that there are government agencies, businesses, medical facilities, schools and other sources that have your personal data. So put this credit report on your ‘to do’ list.

Catherine Forsythe

Tags: identity theft, security, free, credit report, experian, equifax, transunion