Consumer Encyclopedia

Security Freeze

Security Freeze (or Credit Freeze)

A security freeze is an identity theft prevention measure in which a consumer restricts access to his credit file. Lenders and creditors (such as credit card companies) will not extend new credit to a consumer if they can't see the consumer's credit report. Thus, an identity thief will have a hard time opening a new account if the consumer's credit is frozen.

The Attorney General recommends consumers freeze their credit files. Consumers who will be applying for a loan, credit or insurance in the near future can temporarily lift the credit freeze.

To freeze your credit report with the three national credit bureaus, follow the links below. It costs $10 per credit bureau.

• Experian security freeze instructions
• Equifax security freeze instructions
• TransUnion security freeze instructions

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