Consumer Encyclopedia
Security Freeze
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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. This will not prevent consumers from applying for a loan, credit or insurance in the near future. Instead, it prevents others from opening new accounts without your authorization.
To freeze your credit report with the three national credit bureaus, follow the links below. It costs $5 per credit bureau.
