Security Freeze | Freeze or Unfreeze Your Credit

Security Freeze | Freeze or Unfreeze Your Credit

Freezing your credit is a great way to protect yourself from identity theft and fraud. A credit freeze, also known as a security freeze, restricts access to your credit report. Freezing your credit makes it harder for identity thieves to open accounts using your information. Data breaches are becoming more common and can put your personal information at risk. Placing a credit freeze on your accounts does not impact your credit score, and you can easily lift it whenever you need to apply for new credit. This ensures your credit details are protected from unauthorized access and is a highly advisable step for you wanting to protect your financial identity.

How to Freeze Your Credit

Equifax

Online: Visit the Equifax website and follow the instructions to place a freeze.

Phone: Call Equifax at 1-800-349-9960 for the automated line or 1-888-298-0045 to speak with a representative.

Mail: Send your request to Equifax Security Freeze, P.O. Box 105788, Atlanta, GA 30348-5788.

Experian

Online: Go to the Experian Freeze Center and follow the steps to freeze your credit.

Phone: Call Experian at 1-888-EXPERIAN (1-888-397-3742).

Mail: Send your request to Experian Security Freeze, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013.

TransUnion

Online: Visit the TransUnion website to place a freeze.

Phone: Call TransUnion at 1-800-916-8800.

Mail: Send your request to TransUnion LLC, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016.

You need to unfreeze your credit each time you apply for new credit. Freezing your credit is a powerful tool to protect against identity theft. A credit freeze can also help you monitor your credit more effectively. Since it restricts access to your credit report, any attempts to open new accounts will be flagged, alerting you to potential fraud. This added layer of security ensures that you are promptly informed of any suspicious activity, allowing you to take fast action to protect your financial health. To learn more click on the links below.

How to place or lift a security freeze on your credit report

https://www.usa.gov/credit-freeze