Freezing your credit is completely free and one of the most effective ways to prevent identity theft. Download the credit bureau apps to easily manage temporary unfreezes when needed. Securing a child's devices too? Start with the guided setup.
Already a Victim?
1. Place a Fraud Alert
If you're already a victim of identity theft or suspect fraudulent activity, place a fraud alert before freezing your credit. A fraud alert encourages lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before granting new credit. An initial fraud alert lasts one year and is free.
Submit a fraud alert with Equifax (it's free) - by law they must notify the other credit bureaus: Place Fraud Alert with Equifax
2. Report Identity Theft
Visit IdentityTheft.gov to report identity theft and get a customized recovery plan. This official Federal Trade Commission website will:
- Help you create an official identity theft report
- Provide a step-by-step recovery plan
- Generate pre-filled forms and letters for sending to credit bureaus, businesses, and debt collectors
Continue reading
Continue for the direct freeze links for all three bureaus and how to monitor your reports.
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