A Free Public Service

September 25, 2025

Attribution: US Ftc.gov

PROTECT WITH CREDIT FREEZE

SCAMS BULLETIN Host Jay White is an inactive attorney in San Mateo, California, USA.

A credit freeze is something you can do anytime, for any reason. But it’s especially helpful if you’re dealing with identity theft or a lost wallet or data breach. While a freeze is in place, nobody can open a new credit account in your name.

A freeze is free to place or lift — and doesn’t affect your credit score

*is available to anyone, for any reason * lasts until you lift it

To place a credit freeze, contact all three credit bureaus —  Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. When you need to lift the freeze — to do things like get a credit card or buy a car — you only need to contact the credit bureau a lender will use to check your credit. When you’re done, you can freeze it again.

Along with a credit freeze, you can also get an initial fraud alert if you are — or suspect you may be — affected by identity theft. Initial fraud alerts (also free) make lenders verify your identity before they grant new credit in your name. There are also two other types of alerts — extended fraud alerts and active duty alerts — (both also free), and which you choose depends on your situation and needs. Read Credit Freeze or Fraud Alert: What’s Right for Your Credit Report? to learn more.

If your identity was stolen, also make sure you report it at IdentityTheft.gov, where you’ll get a free recovery plan with next steps.

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