I put a freeze on my credit reports two years ago. Today, it paid off.
"We are unable to approve your request for a Bill Me Later account," writes the lender I've never heard of and from whom I most certainly did not ask for credit. "Because there is a freeze on your credit report."
Thank you, paranoia. Again.
Seriously, people, freeze your credit reports. It affects me 5 minutes and $30 a year.