Protect Your Credit & Reduce Your Risk of Identity Theft

Written By: Joey Waterman

Locking or freezing your credit report is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from identity theft. It helps prevent new accounts from being opened in your name without your permission. This simple, free step can give you more control over your financial security.

The three major U.S. credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—offer secure ways to lock or freeze your credit. These bureaus are federally regulated and maintain the most comprehensive credit data available. Locking your credit with each one is quick and easy, whether done online or by phone.

Who Should Consider Locking Their Credit?

Locking your credit is a smart move if:

• You’re not planning to apply for new credit soon.
• You’ve experienced identity theft or were affected by a data breach.
• You’re a parent and want to protect your child’s credit profile.
• You’re in a stable financial period and not planning to open new loans, credit cards, or financing.

Just remember to unlock your credit in advance if you’re applying for a loan, new credit card, or even a job that may require a credit check.

How to Lock or Freeze Your Credit

Basic Information Needed:

• Full Name
• Date of Birth
• Social Security
• Number
• Current Address
  (and previous addresses if you’ve moved in the past 2 years)
• Email Address
• Phone Number

1. Equifax

• Website: www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/
• Phone: 1-800-349-9960
• Steps:

1. Log into or create your myEquifax account.
2. Choose “Place a Freeze” or “Lock Credit.”
3. Follow the identity verification prompts.
4. Experian

• Website: www.experian.com/freeze/center.html
• Phone: 1-888-397-3742
• Steps:

1. Click “Freeze My Credit.”
2. Log into or create your Experian account.
3. Complete the identity verification process.
4. TransUnion

• Website: www.transunion.com/credit-freeze
• Phone: 1-888-909-8872
• Steps:

1. Log into or create your TransUnion account.
2. Select “Add a Freeze” or “Lock My Credit.”
3. Confirm your identity.

What to Keep in Mind

While locking your credit is a powerful way to guard against identity theft, here are a few things to consider:

• You’ll need to unlock your credit temporarily before applying for new credit, loans, insurance, or some jobs.
• Each bureau must be locked individually—locking one does not affect the others.
• You can lift a freeze at any time through your online account.

Take 20 minutes today to lock your credit at all three bureaus. It’s a small effort for a big sense of peace—and a safer financial future.

Have additional questions on how to protect your credit and reduce the risk of identity theft? Get in touch with the Twelve Points team today!

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