How An Experian Security Freeze Could Protect You From ID Theft

Many people have heard of the Experian security freeze but are not sure about what it does. A security freeze is the term used to prevent any creditor gaining access to your account. A security freeze is commonly used to protect people from identity theft.

If identity thieves try to open an account in your name they will not be able with an a security freeze applied to your credit report. Whenever, you apply for a loan, credit card or mortgage the lender will check your credit report first to determine your ability to repay. A loan will not be offered until a check has been carried out.

How Can I Obtain A  Security Freeze From Experian

Each of the credit consumer reporting agencies who include Experian, Transunion and Equifax can provide you with a security freeze on your credit file. In order to obtain your credit bureau security freeze from Experian you will need to contact them in writing. The address to send your request is;

Experian Security Freeze
P.O. Box 9554
Allen, Texas 75013

With your request letter you will need to prove your identity and provide the following details:

• Your full name and address where you have resided for in the last five years.
• Your Social security number.
• Date of birth
• Two proofs of identification for e.g. drivers licence, bank statement or gas bill.

As you will sending important personal information through the post it is advisable that you use certified mail delivery.

Can I Open New Credit Accounts With A Credit Freeze

No, to open new credit accounts you will have to request an Experian security freeze lift from your report. To do this you can either send a written request that the freeze be temporarily  lifted or  another alternative is to remove it online if you have access to the internet.

When you first requested a credit freeze you should have received a special PIN number from Experian with instructions. Removing your freeze online should take effect immediately however, you will have to wait longer if you make your request by mail.

Is A Credit Freeze And An Experian Security Alert The Same Thing?

As pointed out the credit freeze limits access to your credit file. The security alert is something completely different but. it is a security measure that can limit the damage if you become a victim of identity theft and fraud. The alert can be compared to an early warning system where you are notified that your credit account has been compromised due to fraudulent activities.  Therefore, a credit alert does not prevent creditors are potential criminals accessing your credit accounts.

There are two types of fraud alerts available as follows:

1. Initial Fraud Alert

This alert is available to people who have not been a victim of identity fraud. This option will only last for 90 days and then it will expire. However, you can renew it again.

2. Extended  Fraud Victim Alert

The extended version is available to people who can prove they have been a victim of ID theft. To qualify for the extended alert you will need to provide Experian with an identity theft police report from either your local, State or Federal local enforcement agency. The extended version can remain on your file for up to 7 years.

Experian also offer an alternative which they call their Active Duty Alert. This is available for people in the military and lasts up to one year on their credit file.

Security Freeze Law Exemptions

There are  exemptions that under the law where certain organizations can have access to consumers credit reports even if the reports have a freeze on them. These will include government agencies and law enforcement agency departments who will need access to the files for investigative purposes.

At the moment the vast majority of states have passed security freeze laws and the 3 credit bureaus including Experian have made available their freeze file services to people in those states that have yet to pass the law.

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