Opting Out of Pre-screened Offers

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Today's gentle reminder is to make sure that you are opted out of pre-screened credit card and insurance offers that come through the mail.  Not only do you not need the temptation, these mail solicitations can be the opening that identity thieves need to access your information.

There are two ways to opt out of pre-screened offers: by telephone or by internet.  To opt-out by telephone, call 1-888-OPTOUT.  To opt-out by internet, visit optpoutprescreen.com.  Both are operated cooperatively by the major credit reporting agencies.  You have the option to opt out for five years or to opt out permanently.  I, of course, recommend that you go ahead and opt out permanently.

Please remember that this only removes you from the mailing lists of organizations that work through these major credit reporting agencies.  You may still continue to receive "junk mail" from other organizations that obtain their information elsewhere, such as local businesses and membership groups.

Opting out of pre-screened offers will help protect your finances in several ways, and I recommend that everyone take advantage of this opportunity to simplify their financial life.

 

 

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