Protect Your Financial Future with a Credit Freeze

A credit freeze — also called a security freeze — is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from identity theft. It prevents lenders, credit card companies, and other financial institutions from accessing your credit report without your permission. That means if a criminal tries to open an account in your name, they’ll be stopped in their tracks.

Why Consider a Credit Freeze?

A credit freeze can:

• Prevent new account fraud — Thieves can’t open loans, credit cards, or lines of credit in your name.
• Put you in control — Only you can lift or “thaw” the freeze when you need to apply for credit.
• Provide long-term protection — Freezes stay in place until you remove them.

It’s free to place, lift, or remove a credit freeze with all three major credit bureaus and ChexSystems.

When You Might Not Want a Credit Freeze

While a credit freeze is highly effective, it may not be the right choice for everyone.

• If you plan to apply for loans, credit cards, or a new job soon, you’ll need to lift the freeze first.
• It doesn’t stop all fraud — for example, it won’t prevent unauthorized charges on an existing credit card or bank account.

For many members, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, especially if your personal data has been exposed in a breach.

How to Place a Credit Freeze

You’ll need to contact each credit bureau and ChexSystems individually to place a freeze: