Credit freeze or fraud alert: pick the one that matches the risk.

What each tool actually does

A freeze restricts access to your credit file so most prospective creditors cannot check it, which makes it hard for someone else to open an account in your name. Existing creditors, certain government agencies such as child support agencies, and companies you hired to monitor your file can still access it. [1] A fraud alert leaves the file open but requires creditors who check it to verify your identity before opening a new account, issuing an additional card or raising a limit. [1][2]

Both are free. The FTC states that a freeze lasts until you lift it, an initial fraud alert lasts one year and can be renewed, and an extended fraud alert lasts seven years. [2]

Choose by situation

• Your data appeared in a breach but nothing has been misused: a freeze at all three bureaus is the stronger block, and it costs nothing to keep in place.
• You suspect someone is trying to open accounts: place a fraud alert through one bureau now, then freeze at all three.
• You have confirmed identity theft and filed an FTC report: an extended fraud alert lasts seven years and can sit alongside a freeze. [2]
• You are an active-duty servicemember: the FTC lists a free active-duty alert lasting one year, renewable for your deployment. [2]
• You are protecting a child under 16: the FTC says a parent can request a free freeze that stays until removed, with a separate process at each bureau. [2]

How to place and lift a freeze without missing a deadline

Place the freeze at Equifax, Experian and TransUnion individually; the CFPB links each bureau's freeze page. [1] A request online or by phone must be honored within one business day; a mailed request within three business days of receipt. Save each confirmation and any PIN or account login the bureau issues, because you will need it to lift the freeze.

Before a credit application, ask the lender which bureau it will check. The FTC notes you can lift the freeze at only that bureau and then refreeze. [2] The CFPB says a lift requested online or by toll-free phone must take effect within one hour; by mail, within three business days. [1] If the lender pulls more than one bureau or will not say, lift all three for a defined window.

Keep a freeze record you can find in a hurry

• For each bureau, note the date the freeze was placed, the method, and where the login or PIN is stored.
• Write down which bureau each of your usual lenders, landlords or utilities checks when you last applied; it saves time on the next lift.
• When you lift a freeze temporarily, record the end date and confirm the file is frozen again afterwards.
• Set a reminder to renew an initial fraud alert before its one-year end if the risk is still active. [2]
• Keep the FTC identity theft report number with the record if you placed an extended alert. [2]

What neither tool does

Neither a freeze nor an alert stops misuse of an existing account, such as charges on a card you already hold. Check statements and your credit reports for accounts you do not recognize; the FTC says AnnualCreditReport.com lets you check each bureau's report once a week for free. [3] If a report shows an account or error that is not yours, the dispute process is covered in the related credit-report guide.

If you already have a freeze in place and are not planning to apply for credit soon, keep it as it is; no further action is needed until you need a lender to see your file. This page is US consumer education, not legal or personalized financial advice.