Q: An AJC article on the Equifax breach suggested that people should freeze their credit, but did not explain how. How can I do that?
—Bob Anstine, Marietta
A: You can request a credit freeze by calling Equifax's automated line at 1-800-685-1111, or by filling out an online form through the credit reporting agency's website (freeze.equifax.com). To complete this process, you'll need to provide your birth date, name, address and Social Security number.
Depending on the reason for your request and your state of residence, credit freezes sometimes require an accompanying payment. These fees range between $3 and $10 for Georgia residents.
Q: For all of us that drive up and down Peachtree Road, especially through Buckhead every morning, what are the new black devices attached to the traffic light crossbars? They are about 4 or 5 square inches in size, in a white housing and mounted by straps to the same crossmembers as the traffic lights. What do these devices do?
—John Higley, Brookhaven
A: The black devices are detectors meant to improve traffic flow by monitoring the speed and volume of passing vehicles. Using radar, the detectors gather data that help improve both safety and efficiency on Peachtree Road, as well as its intersecting cross streets, according to a spokesperson for the city of Atlanta.
Fast Copy News Service wrote this column; Dillon Thompson contributed. Do you have a question? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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