What is a Credit Freeze?

When a security freeze is in place at all three major credit bureaus, an identity thief cannot open a new account because the potential creditor or seller of services will not be able to check the credit file. Placing a credit freeze, or security freeze, on your credit reports means an identity thief — even one who has your name, address, Social Security number, birth date and more — should NOT be able to get new loans and credit in your name. That's because lenders, retailers, utilities and other businesses need access to a credit report to review and approve new credit, loans, and services.

Credit report freeze laws have been enacted in all but 3 states. Alabama, Missouri, and Michigan are the only states without a credit freeze, but the credit bureau's voluntary credit freeze is still available to them.

Individuals living in states that have passed laws regarding freezing credit reports must abide by those laws. There are variations between states, so check out your state's website for details on how to place a freeze on your credit report. For more information on placing a Credit Freeze, visit FinancialPrivacyNow.org
The goal of this Protection Credit website is to make you more aware of identity protection and credit protection by providing information and resources about credit reports and credit monitoring, fraud alerts, as well as taking proactive steps to not become a victim of identity theft in the first place. Thanks for visiting this site today and referring it to your friends!