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����?�{iM$鸋���ߟ6v`c��A^j��u��N��6- ��ؑ�S9ŭ}�;^�l8vG���)lj6� +$�X�Mʸ��">"M�Ye}ǒ-��Ր�_��ؖHF+'[VX�I-�ɷ�WRBI�lRQ�]�� 4Ũ�>i�
����?�{iM$鸋���ߟ6v`c��A^j��u��N��6- ��ؑ�S9ŭ}�;^�l8vG���)lj6� +$�X�Mʸ��NoneIf safeguarding your identity from theft is a top priority, freezing your credit is one of the smartest actions you can take. This straightforward but highly effective measure stops creditors from viewing your credit report without your direct authorization. By cutting off access to your credit file, you create a strong barrier that makes it far more difficult for criminals to misuse your personal details to open accounts or secure loans under your name. Secure Your Credit with a Freeze Today Think of a credit freeze as a virtual lock on your financial profile. Once in place, it restricts access to your credit report entirely, preventing unauthorized parties from exploiting your Social Security number or credit information. When your credit is frozen, lenders cannot check your credit score, which renders your Social Security number and credit details useless to would-be fraudsters. In essence, a credit freeze acts as a barrier, preventing criminals from opening new lines of credit or accounts in your name. If your personal information has already been compromised, freezing your credit can be a vital step to stop thieves from exploiting your identity further. The good news is that lifting the freeze is quick and straightforward. You can easily lift the freeze whenever needed, using the personal PIN issued by the credit bureau, allowing access to your credit report for loan or credit card applications. While it might seem like an extra step, the process is free and takes just a few minutes—an incredibly small effort for such a substantial benefit. Please remember freezing your credit is entirely free. There are no hidden fees or costs involved, so there is no reason to delay taking this critical step to secure your financial future. Another important thing is that freezing your credit does not affect your credit score . The freeze simply restricts access to your credit report without changing your existing accounts or their status. Your existing creditors and authorized entities can still conduct "soft" credit inquiries, which have no effect on your credit score. These checks are often used for account reviews or pre-approved offers, ensuring that freezing your credit will not interfere with your existing financial activities. Why Choose a Credit Freeze Over a Fraud Alert? While fraud alerts can provide some level of security, they are far less effective than a credit freeze. A fraud alert is temporary, lasting only one year, and does not block identity thieves from accessing your credit report. It merely notifies creditors that your information could be compromised. A credit freeze, by contrast, offers stronger, more comprehensive protection, blocking unauthorized access altogether. Your Credit with the Main Credit Bureaus Follow these steps to place a credit freeze with the three primary credit bureaus: Do not forget about Innovis, the fourth credit bureau that is often overlooked. Freezing your credit with Innovis follows a process similar to the three major bureaus and is completely free. Click here to freeze your credit with Innovis. Do Not Forget About the National Consumer Telecommunications and Utilities Exchange Protecting your identity goes beyond the major credit bureaus. The National Consumer Telecommunications and Utilities Exchange (NCTUE) is an important organization you should also keep in mind. Many mobile phone providers and utility companies rely on NCTUE for credit checks. This means that even if your credit is frozen with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, identity thieves could still use your information to open accounts through these providers. You can safeguard yourself by placing a freeze on your NCTUE account. The process involves verifying your Social Security number and other details, but it is typically automated and straightforward. Once your account is frozen, your NCTUE credit report will be secured, adding another layer of protection against fraud. To freeze your NCTUE report, you can call their toll-free number at 1-866-349-5355 or attempt to do it online here: NCTUE Freeze (though some users report that the link may not always function smoothly). Secure Your Bank Accounts With A ChexSystems Freeze Another key step in protecting your identity is freezing your report with ChexSystems, a consumer reporting agency that banks use to evaluate applicants for checking and savings accounts. Freezing your ChexSystems report blocks unauthorized access to your financial data, helping to minimize the risk of fraud. Keep in mind that freezing your ChexSystems report only protects your banking information. For complete protection, it is essential to also freeze your credit with the major bureaus. You can freeze your ChexSystems report here . Stop Pre-Approved Credit Offers With Opt-Out Prescreen You can take additional precautions by opting out of pre-approved credit offers. These offers, while convenient, can be a goldmine for scammers if they gain access to your mail. To opt out, you can call 1-888-5-OPT-OUT or visit OptOutPrescreen.com . Prevent Employment Fraud with myE-Verify's Self Lock The Department of Homeland Security's Self Lock service is another valuable resource for protecting your identity. This service allows you to lock your Social Security number, preventing it from being used fraudulently for employment purposes. If someone attempts to use your locked Social Security number, it triggers a mismatch in the system, flagging the activity as suspicious. The lock remains in effect for one year and can be conveniently renewed each year. To learn more or set up a lock, visit Self-Lock Freeze . Protect Your Social Security Benefits From Fraud Creating an online account with the Social Security Administration (SSA) is a proactive step to protect your benefits and personal information. Through your SSA account, you can track your earnings history, review future benefits, and stay informed with key updates. Be wary of fraudulent calls or emails claiming to be from the SSA. They will never issue threats of arrest or request immediate payment. If you are unsure about the legitimacy of a communication, log in to your SSA account or call their official number to verify. Take Control of Your Identity Today Freezing your credit is a straightforward yet powerful way to safeguard yourself against identity theft . By limiting access to your credit report, you greatly reduce the chances of criminals opening accounts in your name. Combine this with other measures—such as freezing ChexSystems, locking your Social Security number, and securing your SSA account—to build a comprehensive shield against identity theft. Do not wait for fraud to happen—take these steps today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your identity is secure.

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The Dolphins' improbable path to the playoffs isn't in their hands, but they must do their part MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins' playoff hopes are not in their hands, but they did their part with a gritty win over San Francisco on Sunday. Alanis Thames, The Associated Press Dec 23, 2024 2:38 PM Dec 23, 2024 3:05 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith (9) is stopped by San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner (54) and safety Talanoa Hufanga (29) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky) MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — The Miami Dolphins' playoff hopes are not in their hands, but they did their part with a gritty win over San Francisco on Sunday. Coach Mike McDaniel knows that's not enough, and his team will need to do it two more times to even have a shot at making the postseason for the third straight year. “I was just proud of this effort and proud of the guys’ effort in general,” McDaniel said. “And that gives you a chance to win December football. Regardless, unless you’re playing in February, you also have to get adept at experiencing that, going through that, having some momentum and then going back and applying it to the next opponent, because no one cares about one win in December or January realistically. It’s about accumulating those.” Miami (7-8) is on the bubble for a wild-card spot along with Indianapolis (7-8) and Cincinnati (7-8). Even if the Dolphins win their remaining two games, they'll need help from other teams to get in. In one scenario, Miami would make the playoffs with two wins and two losses each by Denver (9-6) and the Los Angeles Chargers (9-6). “This team, we know when we do it well, we can do it very well,” defensive tackle Calais Campbell said. “We know that our chances are slim, but there’s a lot of fight left. And if we have a chance, we’re going to fight for it.” Miami closed out Sunday's game with a strong fourth quarter in all three phases. The offense converted on all three of its third-down attempts. Running back De'Von Achane had 93 of his 190 scrimmage yards in the quarter, including a 50-yard rushing score that put the game out of reach. Jason Sanders nailed a 48-yard field goal just before the two-minute warning. And the defense intercepted Brock Purdy on one of the Niners' last-ditch efforts. “I think that was something that we needed to see as a team together,” quarterback Tua Tagovailoa said. “You could see in all three phases that we were able to play the complementary football that we said we wanted to play. The defense giving the offense opportunities to go put points on the board. Then when there were times where we didn’t do what we wanted to do offensively, the defense held.” With both of the Dolphins' final games on the road, they'll need to play better than they have in away games for much of the season. Miami is 5-3 at home, its fifth straight home winning record, but the Dolphins are 2-5 on the road. McDaniel expressed confidence that those home efforts can travel in this final stretch. “When you’re trying to play football so that in the inevitable situation that you face every season,” McDaniel said, “an elimination game, whether it’s to get in the playoffs or it’s in the playoffs, you want to be tooled with a team that can succeed or execute in those types of situations.” What's working Miami's run game finally got going with 166 yards. It was the Dolphins' first time topping 100 yards rushing since Week 9. Achane led the charge with 120 yards. His 50-yard rushing score was Miami's longest run this season. What needs help The Dolphins moved the ball well but scored touchdowns on just one of three trips to the red zone. Stock up Sanders. He was 5 for 5 on field goals with a long of 54 yards, and 2 for 2 on extra points. Sanders has made 23 consecutive field goals and is 11 of 13 on kicks of 50-plus yards. He's one of two kickers, alongside Dallas' Brandon Aubrey, who have made a field goal in every game this season. Stock down WR Tyreek Hill. The All-Pro receiver caught just 3 of 7 targets for 29 yards and a touchdown. He had a third-down drop on the Dolphins' opening drive and dropped a potential touchdown later in the game. The NFL's receiving leader last year is averaging just 55.6 yards per game and has only two 100-plus yard receiving games this season. Injuries WR Jaylen Waddle missed the game because of a knee injury. ... CB Kendall Fuller (knee) and LB Jordyn Brookes (quad/knee) both went down late in the second half. Key numbers 76 receptions, 802 yards — Both single-season Dolphins records for a tight end, which Jonnu Smith broke with six catches for 62 yards on Sunday. Next step The Dolphins will continue their efforts to sneak into the playoffs when they play at Cleveland (3-12) on Sunday. They'll need to beat the Browns and the New York Jets (4-11) in their regular-season finale to give themselves a chance. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL Alanis Thames, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Football (NFL) Rodgers acknowledges Jets could release him after the regular season as he contemplates his future Dec 23, 2024 2:39 PM Riding a 3-game win streak, the Bengals cling to playoff hopes with the Broncos next Dec 23, 2024 2:25 PM Bills offense is 'Cooking,' with running game adding a powerful new dimension Dec 23, 2024 2:22 PMCondos to bounce back

Emmy-Winning Soap Opera Actor Dies at 84Sir Keir Starmer said he would be looking towards a “better, brighter future for every person” in a Christmas message following a turbulent year for the UK. The Prime Minister said the season was a time to remember the importance of “being there for one another”, including in “the more difficult times”. He also expressed hope for “peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story” amid spiralling conflict across the region. The message comes after a challenging first five months in office for the Labour Government and against the backdrop of a flatlining economy and rising inflation. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season. “It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people. “Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.” To our military and veterans, the whole nation thanks you for the sacrifices you make to keep us safe. My government will serve you as you have served your country. I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. pic.twitter.com/LphMZog6np — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 22, 2024 The Prime Minister sought to strike an optimistic note following another year of political upheaval for Britain, which saw Labour win a landslide victory after a surprise election called by Rishi Sunak in the summer. After taking office in July, the new Government made a series of unpopular decisions as ministers confronted the realities of creaking public services and strained national finances. As well as dealing with the economic inheritance, Sir Keir said he needed to fix a “broken society” which manifested itself in summer riots across the country after the Southport knife attack. Sir Keir said: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story. “I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings. “So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.” The message comes after revised official figures released on Monday indicated that UK gross domestic product (GDP) showed no growth between July and September. Downing Street defended the Government’s record so far when asked about the data, telling reporters: “We had to take those tough decisions to lay the foundations of growth such that we can then deliver the higher living standards over this Parliament that people want to see.” The Prime Minister also used his message to thank those spending Christmas serving others, including in the NHS and emergency services, the armed forces, churches and charities. “I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. “Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone,” he said. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch said Christmas was a time to reflect on “all that’s happened in the year” and “support all of those people who need our assistance”. “I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone, not just in the Conservative Party or in my constituency, but across the country,” the Tory leader said. “For all that you have been doing in your communities, supporting each other and helping to keep all our towns, villages and places going. “I think that Christmas is a time for us to reflect on all that’s happened in the year. “Sometimes we have amazing years. “Sometimes, like when I lost my dad, we have difficult years and we’re commiserating, but we do it together. “But it’s a time for us to support all of those people who need our assistance, who need our help, who need our support.” She added: “And I’m looking forward to 2025. “I wish you all the very best for the New Year and all of the exciting things to come.” Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “This year, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some amazing young carers. “Incredible young people who will spend this Christmas doing what they do all year round; looking after loved ones who are ill or disabled. “Carers embody the Christmas spirit of love, selflessness and generosity. “So I hope we can all take some time to think of them, and keep them in our hearts. “And wish them – and everyone – a Christmas full of peace, joy and love.” We do not moderate comments, but we expect readers to adhere to certain rules in the interests of open and accountable debate.

Shark's FlexStyle devices have a pretty impressive reputation for delivering salon-worthy tresses in rapid time and with minimal heat damage to your hair. In the brand's festive end of year sale, its stylers have been reduced massively, to help you see in 2025 in style. Now costing £239.99 from £299.99 at Shark, beating Boots and John Lewis ' price of £269.99 and £249.99, the Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Styler & Hair Dryer is a great investment piece that can give your hair bouncy curls - both naturally enhanced with the diffuser and manually with a barrel - volumise, smooth, and dry it effortlessly with less damage thanks to the device measuring heat 1,000 times per second, generating consistent air flow temperatures. The styler comes complete with auto-wrap curlers, a paddle brush, an oval brush, a concentrator, a diffuser and a storage case, meaning you can get five different styles in one fell swoop. Read more: Boots launches huge winter sale with 50% off top brands including Philips and Kylie Jenner Read more: Dunelm shoppers nab 'expensive looking' double bedding set for less than £14 using deal Now, I have this device - specifically the Wicked themed iteration that is currently out of stock (sob!) but I'm sure it'll be restocked in no time - and with shortish, curly and frizzy hair, I must admit I had relatively sceptical hopes for it to transform my hair into sumptuous locks in record time at home, as I'd seen all over social media. But I must say, I was proved well and truly wrong after testing it out for myself having given in to the hype. Let me tell you why. Firstly, the FlexStyler is a stunning piece to look at - it's not your regular, bulky hair dryer that is a faff to transport anywhere. It it long and sleek and has a button to fold it into a right angle (which is the position that dries your hair, rather than styles it). It can fit neatly into your bag without taking up too much room, making it great to travel with and isn't actually too loud. How it works is you need to dry your hair to about 70% with the dryer part of the hair styler in place, at a right angle, then, straighten it up (with the click of a button) to add your desired attachment. Packed with power, it dried my entire head of hair rapidly (taking drying time from 35 minutes to about 10) with its customisable heat and airflow settings to style with the various different attachments. I didn't even need to use the most powerful setting and it cut down my drying time immensely. I will say that using the attachments does take some getting used to - when using the curling barrel, it took several attempts to get the right angle to get the curl how I wanted it - and I've had a few times when the attachment has come out mid flow. Although, that may be my fault. Once you've nailed it, however, in my opinion you are left with enviable hair that looks like you've rolled out of the salon with just one styling device - my picture does not do it justice. My favourite attachment is the oval brush as, for someone with unruly curls, it's sometimes tricky to have silky smooth styles without using a pair of straighteners to get that soft finish, but the brush part cuts through the knots and leaves my hair super silky, it's really lovely. Plus, it gives it volume and makes me feel like I'm part of ABBA with its flicky finish. Although I would have enjoyed having a smaller oval brush to tackle my shorter layers. I enjoy the curler too as, if I want more Hollywood style curls, it's ideal for getting those big, bouncy barrels without the need for a curling tong. Although it is a bit of an investment at £239.99, one of the only negatives I've come across, it's one that I can see lasting for a long time and has all your styling needs in one piece of equipment. And, if it gives your hair that extra bit of protection from heat, it's worthwhile, no? Get the stone 5-IN-1 Flex-Styler here for £239.99 down from £299.99. Shark isn't the only place offering some pretty epic reductions on hair stylers of this calibre. Boots has reduced the price of the Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler And Dryer in Strawberry Bronze And Blush Pink to £399.99 from £479.99, meanwhile Bellissima Italia's Air Wonder 8 in 1 Hot Air Styler is now £69.99 down from £129.99.

NoneBears general manager Ryan Poles was granted a reprieve complete with a second swing at hiring a head coach in Chicago. Poles will interview candidates and select a replacement for Matt Eberflus, who was fired Friday after the Bears' sixth consecutive loss and fourth of the season decided on a final play. "Ryan Poles is the general manager of the Chicago Bears, and he will remain the general manager of the Chicago Bears," president and CEO Kevin Warren said Monday. "Ryan will serve as the point person of our upcoming search for a head football coach. We will closely, we will work together on a daily basis to make sure we have the right person as our head football coach." Warren said the McCaskey family provided "all the resources" to build a championship environment. He confirmed that Thomas Brown, who a month ago was passing game coordinator before replacing Shane Waldron as offensive coordinator, will serve as interim head coach and shift from the press box to the sideline starting this week. Warren did not say whether Brown would automatically receive an interview for the full-time coaching position, which he said "will be the most coveted head coaching job in the National Football League." Poles said consideration will be given to candidates with the plan to develop rookie No. 1 pick Caleb Williams, but there are no set plans to involve the quarterback in the interview process. He said the Bears showed great progress through two seasons but couldn't sustain growth. "At the end of the day, we just came up short too many times," Poles said of firing Eberflus, his pick to be the Bears' head coach in January 2022. Brown promoted wide receivers coach Chris Beatty to interim offensive coordinator on Monday and announced that defensive coordinator Eric Washington will be the defensive play caller, a role Eberflus previously held. Trailing 23-20 on Thanksgiving Day, the Bears were within field-goal range when quarterback Caleb Williams was sacked. With 32 seconds remaining, Eberflus elected not to use his final timeout as Williams heaved an incompletion down the right sideline as time expired. "When you look at the end-of-the-game situations, detailing to finish in some of those moments. We all know a lot of games come down to those critical moments where we weren't able to get over the hump," Poles said. Eberflus said after the game that everything was handled properly and held a press conference via Zoom on Friday voicing confidence he'd have the team ready to play the 49ers this week. But three hours later, he was fired. Warren admitted the franchise could've handled the timing better, but clarified there was no decision on Eberflus' status at the time of his media session. "The decision was made to terminate the employment of head coach Matt Eberflus," Warren said 72 hours later. "We try to do everything in a professional manner. That decision was made on Friday." "Coach Eberflus had his press conference, we had not made a final decision. I think you know me, you know Ryan you know George McCaskey. One thing we stand for is family, integrity, doing it the right way. In retrospect, could we have done it better? Absolutely." Eberflus, 54, went 14-32 in two-plus seasons. The Bears (4-8) travel to San Francisco (5-7) in Week 1. --Field Level Media

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