The Clark Howard Podcast 12.15.25 Protect Your Retirement Accounts / Electronic Medical Records
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Dec 15, 2025 Discover how criminals are exploiting brokerage accounts and learn two essential steps to safeguard your retirement savings. Explore the shift to electronic medical records and why many patients aren't embracing this digital convenience. Plus, hear tips for using peer-to-peer payment apps securely and the surprising truth about dental debit card charges. Clark also tackles dynamic pricing on Amazon and why shredding junk mail is crucial for protecting your identity.
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Lock Your Brokerage Against ACAT Theft
- Put an ACAT/ACATS transfer lock on brokerage and retirement accounts to block unauthorized transfers.
- Remove the lock only when you intentionally move accounts so criminals can't use shell accounts to steal funds.
ACAT System's Design Enables Fast Theft
- ACATs were built to stop brokerages from illegally holding transfers but now enable fast electronic theft.
- The system's speed and design let criminals move money before recovery, making prosecution and restitution difficult.
Use SIM Locks And Broker Transfer Locks
- Protect your phone number with a SIM lock at your carrier to stop two-factor interception tied to brokerage fraud.
- Check your broker's security settings and enable any ACAT/transfer locks or call support to add them.