3 Steps to lock down your identity and stop fraud

Cybercriminals don’t rest—and neither should your defenses. In 2024, nearly 47 million U.S. consumers were targeted by identity theft, with a new personal data breach happening every 21 seconds—on average, over 4,100 breaches per day. The threat is real, relentless, and growing. That’s why now—not later—is when you must take action. These are action steps recommended by Mike Iem, President of the Ziem Group Consulting in Redmond, recommends:

• Freeze your credit with all three major bureaus to stop new account fraud

• Request an IRS Identity Protection PIN to keep tax imposters out

• Lock your SSN for employment verification to thwart unauthorized job-related identity misuse

• Enable 2FA and use passkeys, and change your passwords frequently—because strong, layered security is your best defense

Hackers never sleep. Let’s act now—because if you don’t, it could be your turn next.

Feel free to share with friends and family.This guide will help you take three essential steps to protect yourself from identity theft, financial fraud, and unnecessary headaches. These steps are:

1. Freeze your credit with all three credit bureaus

2. Get an IRS Identity Protection PIN

3. Lock your Social Security Number (SSN) for employment verification

Enable 2FA and use passkeys, and change your passwords frequently—because strong,

layered security is your best defense.

These are fast, free, and highly effective. Please take 30 minutes today and get it done.

Step 1: Freeze Your Credit – Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

What Is a Credit Freeze?

A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report. This stops identity thieves from opening new accounts or loans in your name—even if they have your Social Security Number.

- It’s FREE – DO NOT Pay for anything, a FREEZE is all you need!!

- Takes just minutes

- Works with apps like Credit Karma

- You can still use your credit cards normally

- You’ll need to temporarily lift the freeze when applying for credit

Apps Make It Even Easier

You can freeze/unfreeze your credit in seconds using mobile apps. Download them for iPhone or Android:

- Experian: iOS & Android

- Equifax: iOS & Android

- TransUnion (myTransUnion): iOS & Android

You Must Freeze All 3 Credit Bureaus

Freezing just one isn't enough. Here's how to do it for all three:

Experian

Website: https://usa.experian.com/mfe/regulatory/security-freeze

Tip: Don’t fall for the $30/month scam. Scroll all the way down and select "No, keep my current membership" if prompted.

- Create an account

- Turn on 2-step verification (Account → Sign-in & Security)

- Use the URL above to freeze/unfreeze your credit

Equifax

Website: https://my.equifax.com/membercenter/#/freeze

- Go to Sign in → myEquifax

- Set up your account

- Freeze/unfreeze with one click

- Enable 2-factor authentication

TransUnion

Website: https://service.transunion.com

- Create an account

- Enable 2-factor authentication

- Use the myTransUnion app or web portal to freeze/unfreeze

Pro Tip: Use a Temporary Unfreeze

If applying for credit (e.g., car loan, mortgage), temporarily lift the freeze for a set time (e.g., 2 days). That way, you don’t forget to refreeze it later.

Do This Now:

1. Sign up on all 3 sites (yes, it’s annoying—but only once)

2. Turn on 2FA (two-factor authentication)

3. Freeze your credit

4. Store login info in a secure password manager (e.g., 1Password)

More Resources:

- Credit Freeze FAQ – FTC: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0497-credit-freeze-faqs

- AnnualCreditReport.com – Free Credit Reports: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports

- Scam Alerts – FTC: https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts

- Credit Freeze Pros & Cons: https://theweek.com/personal-finance/credit-freeze-pros-cons

Step 2: Get an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN)

Protect Yourself from Identity Theft Identity theft can lead to fraudulent tax filings and unauthorized employment using your personal information. By taking proactive measures, you can safeguard your financial well-being and personal data.

What is an IP PIN?

An IP PIN is a six-digit number issued by the IRS to prevent unauthorized use of your Social Security number on federal tax returns. It adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that only you or your authorized representative can file a tax return in your name.

Why Should You Get One?

Tax-related identity theft is a growing concern. Fraudsters can use stolen personal information to file false tax returns and claim refunds. By obtaining an IP PIN, you make it significantly harder for identity thieves to misuse your information. The IRS recommends all taxpayers consider this protective measure, not just those who have experienced identity theft.

How to Get an IP PIN:

1. Online Application (Fastest Method):

• Visit the IRS Get an IP PIN page.

• Sign in to your IRS online account or create one.

• Verify your identity through ID.me, which may involve uploading a photo ID and taking a selfie.

• Once verified, your IP PIN will be available in your account.

  
  

Important Notes:

• A new IP PIN is generated each year.

• Keep your IP PIN confidential. Only share it with your tax preparer.

• The IRS will never call, email, or text you requesting your IP PIN.

Step 3: Lock Your Social Security Number for Employment Verification

What is the E-Verify Self Lock?

The E-Verify Self Lock is a feature that prevents unauthorized use of your SSN in the E-Verify system, which employers use to confirm employment eligibility. By locking your SSN, you stop others from using your identity to gain employment fraudulently.

Why Should You Use It?

Employment-related identity fraud can result in someone else's earnings being reported under your name, leading to tax complications and issues with Social Security benefits. Locking your SSN helps protect against this type of fraud.

How to Lock Your SSN:

1. Create a myE-Verify Account:

a. Go to the myE-Verify website.

b. Click on "Create Account" and follow the prompts to set up your account.

2. Activate Self Lock:

a. Log in to your myE-Verify account.

b. Navigate to the "Self Lock" section.

c. Select and answer three security questions.

d. Confirm your decision to lock your SSN.

Important Notes:

• The Self Lock remains active as long as your myE-Verify account is valid.

• You can unlock your SSN at any time, especially if you're seeking employment and need to undergo E-Verify.

• Remember to relock your SSN after completing employment verification