Arm yourself against security breaches

A few weeks ago Derica Williams told you about security breach where hackers stole about 1.5-million credit card numbers from a major payment processor.  It’s reported that the crooks, fortunately didn't get any cardholder names, addresses or social security numbers, that time.  But money experts are almost certain there will be other breaches.

There are things you can do to protect your credit. The author of "perfect credit" suggests the first thing you should do is contact each of the major credit reporting agencies.

There are three: Experian, Equifax and Trans-Union.   They can put fraud alerts on your credit reports so no one else can open accounts or take out loans in your name.

Next, you should file a police report.   Theft is a serious crime and that police report will serve as proof if any future issues come up.

Also, consider a credit monitoring service.  Another option, you can also try a single-use or 'virtual' credit cards that are offered by some banks for online purchases.  Basically, the bank creates a different number than your primary credit card for purchases.     That way if hackers steal from the store you bought from, they won't get your credit card number.   All ways to help protect you.