Call 1-88 or visit to request a permanent opt-out. No renewals: A freeze lasts indefinitely.
Equifax security freeze or credit file lock free#
More affordable: Credit freezes are free through each of the three major credit bureaus. More secure: Credit locks are often bundled with other identity theft protection tools. It is also a good idea to opt-out of pre-screened credit card offers - not only do they clutter your mailbox, they are gold to an identity thief. More flexible: You can lock/unlock your credit as needed.
There are smaller information clearinghouse entities that you can ask to freeze your personal information, including Innovis and ChexSystems. You want a deadbolt for your credit report, not a doorman hired to watch for fishy things! What Else Can I do? Don't be fooled by credit monitoring (Lifelock) or passive security "locks" that falsely claim to be better - demand a security "freeze" which is legally mandated. Security Freeze or Security Lock?Ĭredit bureaus are not happy about freezes as it prevents them from profiting on your information. Then take a look at the Security Freeze FAQ from the U.S. That's it! Read more about the huge benefits of security freezes and the new "Ice Age" at KrebsOnSecurity. On the infrequent occasion when you need to apply for credit (new card, new house, new vehicle), you will need to temporarily "thaw" your security freeze for a few days while the bank, escrow, or dealership runs a credit check.
Despite warnings to the contrary, this is not something that only victims of identity theft should do - everyone should do this! This does not affect your use of credit cards that are already issued. The freeze does not disable your FICO score, which will continue to fluctuate as normal. This is much like a firewall for your credit file - without the PIN, not even you will be able to pull the report when the freeze is in place. Once the freeze is in place, nobody can pull your credit history without a special random 10-digit PIN sent to you in the postal mail.
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