Credit Freezes, Fraud Alerts, and Specialty Agencies
A credit freeze is one of the most effective steps you can take against identity theft. It is free, and it does not affect your credit score.
The three nationwide bureaus
Since September 21, 2018, federal law has required the three nationwide credit bureaus to provide security freezes free of charge. Freeze your file at each one:
| Bureau | What to do |
|---|---|
| Equifax | Place a free security freeze online, by phone, or by mail |
| Experian | Place a free security freeze online, by phone, or by mail |
| TransUnion | Place a free security freeze online, by phone, or by mail |
A freeze blocks new creditors from accessing your credit report, which stops most new-account fraud. You can lift it temporarily when you apply for credit.
Specialty agencies most people forget
- Innovis, a fourth credit bureau, also offers a free security freeze.
- ChexSystems reports on checking and savings account history; a freeze helps prevent fraudulent bank accounts.
- National Consumer Telecom and Utilities Exchange (NCTUE) holds data on phone, utility, and pay-TV accounts.
- LexisNexis Risk Solutions maintains consumer files used in insurance and other decisions and offers a security freeze.
Fraud alerts
A fraud alert tells creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity. An initial alert can be placed with one bureau, which notifies the others. Extended alerts are available to identity theft victims.
For children
Parents can freeze a minor's credit file at each bureau. Children are attractive targets precisely because their files are usually unmonitored.
Keep your PINs and passwords safe
Each bureau gives you a way to lift your freeze. Store those credentials securely, ideally in a password manager.