Security Freeze on Credit Reports

Security Freeze and Fraud Alert – Free Tools to Help Protect Your Identity

A simple way to help protect your identity is to put a freeze on your credit. A security freeze will restrict access to your credit report so that new credit accounts cannot be opened. To do this simply go online and request a freeze at all three of the major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

A Fraud alert is a notice that is placed on your credit reports that alerts creditors that you may have been a victim of fraud, and they should take steps to verify your identity before extending credit.

You can have a Security Freeze and a Fraud Alert on your report at the same time or you can choose one. The table below may help you determine which is right for you.

Security Freeze Fraud Alert When to use If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft and to help prevent identity theft If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft and plan to use credit within the next months Are credit applications blocked Yes, if you are applying for a loan you need to unfreeze before you apply No, creditors are instructed to verify your identity before processing credit or loan applications made in your name Shared with other agencies No, you must freeze at each of the agencies Yes How long it lasts Until you unfreeze 1 year or 7 years with a valid police or law enforcement agency report How do you stop Can place a freeze, remove a freeze, or temporarily lift the freeze online Can mail or upload request online

 

 

1733 Park Street Suite 350 Naperville, IL. 60563

(331) 204-6230 Direct

(331) 229-8632 Fax

www.lantzteam.com