Freeze Your Credit
1 hourPlace free security freezes at Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion online. Save PINs securely for future thawing.
Field context
This workflow is part of 2 niche fields
Free step-by-step identity theft protection for all adults. Plan identity theft protection with calculators and checklists covering freeze your credit, set up.
Place free security freezes at Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion online. Save PINs securely for future thawing.
Enable transaction alerts on bank and credit cards, review credit reports free at AnnualCreditReport.com, and consider identity monitoring services.
Use password manager, enable 2FA on financial accounts, shred sensitive mail, and never share SSN by phone or email.
Know steps if identity is stolen: file FTC report at IdentityTheft.gov, place fraud alerts, dispute fraudulent accounts, and file police report.
Evaluate cost of paid monitoring vs free protections. · Budget for optional identity monitoring services ($10-$30/month). · Track costs of credit restoration if victimized.
Check if umbrella policy includes identity theft coverage.
Protection score = (3 bureau freezes × 33%) + (2FA on financial accounts × 34%) + (transaction alerts × 33%). Target 100% before monitoring spend.
A free credit freeze prevents new account fraud entirely — paid monitoring only alerts you after damage occurs.
Legitimate employers, banks, and IRS already have your SSN — anyone calling or emailing to "verify" it is a scammer.
Many HO policies include $25K identity theft coverage and restoration services — check before paying for separate service.