3 security and data checks you should do once a year
With all the new data breaches, scams and car recalls, here are three tasks to add to your to-do list each year to make sure you spot any issues you might otherwise miss.
I make it a point to do the three important tasks below once a year. Now, you need to do the same. Sure, it’s a few more items on your to-do list, but you’ll feel good knowing it’s done.
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1. Pull your credit report
With all the data breaches, hacks and new scam tricks, this is a must. You can often spot issues on your credit report that you might miss otherwise.
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The three credit reporting agencies (TransUnion, Experian and Equifax) are required by law to provide you with one free credit report a year. Sweet. There are a few ways you can request a copy of yours from each agency:
FYI, online is the fastest route. If you submit a request via phone or mail, expect to wait two weeks after the paperwork is received.
2. Look at your medical data, too
There’s another type of credit report to pay attention to: A secret "health credit report" used mainly by life insurance companies to determine how big of a risk you are.
These reports can contain mistakes, just like your financial credit reports. It’s a good idea to review them from time to time and make sure everything is on the up and up. The good news is you have the right to see your health credit report whenever you’d like.
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Start with Milliman IntelliScript
They have prescription info about you if you’ve authorized the release of your medical records to an insurance company and that company requests a report. To request a copy of your report, call 877-211-4816. Expect to share your:
Next is ExamOne
ExamOne is a Quest Diagnostics company. They help determine how big of a health risk you are based on lab tests conducted over the years. To contact ExamOne and get your report, call 844-225-8047.
Finally, there’s MIB Group
The company formerly known as the Medical Information Bureau tracks everyone who applies for individually underwritten life, health or disability income insurance during the previous seven years. To get a look at what’s in your MIB report, call 866-692-6901.
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FYI, some of these reports could take up a while to receive so plan ahead. They are free so it won’t cost you anything to check them out. I’d recommend looking at them even if you’re not applying for life insurance just to make sure there are no mistakes.
3. Check into your car
Tens of millions of vehicles on the road have open recalls. Best case, they’re small annoyances. Worst case, you shouldn’t be driving it.
Your car’s manufacturer should reach out if there’s a serious recall, but there are all sorts of reasons that might not happen. Do it yourself:
What to do if your vehicle is part of a recall
Recall service work is generally done at your car dealership. Give them a call to schedule an appointment. Having the recall number is handy, but they can also look up recall information through their records.
Recalls can be for potentially dangerous issues, so schedule service as soon as possible. Dealerships typically have shuttle services so you can drop off your car and have them pick you up when it’s ready. Your dealer can even arrange for your car to be towed if the recall is severe enough that you shouldn’t drive it.
And remember, the dealership will complete all repair work made on your car due to recall for free. That includes parts and software. Score!
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