Guide · Scam Prevention

Three Ways to Make Yourself Harder to Scam

You can do these in any order. Starting with just one still counts.

These are written to fit most situations, so your screens may look a little different. If you'd like hands-on help with your own setup, that's part of the work I do. Here's how to get started.

Your phone Lock your phone number So no one can move your number to their phone and receive your security codes. You'll need: carrier login or a call

Open your phone carrier's app, or dial 611 to talk to a person.
Look for, or ask for, Number Lock, Account Lock, or SIM Protection. The name varies by carrier.
Turn on every protection you see. Some carriers have two switches, and you want both.

Heads up: You'll turn it off briefly when you get a new phone or switch carriers. That small hassle is what makes it work.

Your email Add an authenticator app to your email Your email is the master key, since most password resets go there. You'll need: phone and computer

Download a free authenticator app. I use Microsoft Authenticator, but there are other good free ones, like Google Authenticator.
On a computer, open your email's security settings and turn on 2-Step Verification using an authenticator app.
Follow the setup prompts to connect the app to your email. Most will ask you to scan a code with the app, then type in the code it gives you to confirm.

Worth knowing: Some email providers now offer passkeys, which let you sign in with your fingerprint or face instead. They're even more secure. I find them a little fussy to set up, which is why I went with an authenticator app, but if your email offers one, it's a strong choice.

Heads up: If you're offered backup codes, write them down and keep them somewhere safe at home. They get you back in if you ever lose your phone.

Your credit Freeze your credit So no one can open a credit card or loan in your name. It's free and doesn't affect your score. You'll need: Social Security number

Visit all three credit bureaus: Equifax Experian TransUnion
Create a free account at each one and choose freeze.
Save your three logins somewhere safe. When you need credit, you'll sign in and lift the freeze for a few minutes.

Heads up: They'll offer paid monitoring or a "credit lock" subscription along the way. You don't need any of it. The freeze is free.