A credit freeze restricts access to consumer credit reports for new-account activity and helps deter identity theft.
A credit freeze, also called a security freeze, restricts access to a consumer’s credit report for new-account activity. Because lenders usually need report access before opening credit, a freeze can make it harder for an identity thief to open an account using stolen information.
A freeze does not close existing accounts, stop all identity theft, block transactions on a stolen card, or freeze the credit score.
When a prospective creditor requests a frozen report for a new application, the bureau restricts access. The creditor will often be unable to complete ordinary underwriting until the consumer lifts the relevant freeze.
The freeze is bureau-specific. Freezing Equifax does not automatically freeze Experian or TransUnion. To create broad coverage, place a freeze with all three. When applying, a consumer may be able to lift only the bureau the lender plans to use, then restore the freeze after the access window.
| A freeze can help | A freeze does not do |
|---|---|
| Restrict new-credit report access | Reverse identity theft that already occurred |
| Make new-account fraud harder | Stop misuse of an existing card or bank account |
| Remain in place until lifted | Stop creditors from reporting account updates |
| Work alongside a fraud alert | Monitor tax, benefits, medical, or bank-account identity theft |
| Protect a child’s file through a separate process | Guarantee that no account can ever be opened |
A freeze is a preventive control for a particular channel. Account alerts, bank monitoring, report review, strong authentication, and identity-theft recovery address other channels.
After a data breach, Naomi freezes her files at all three nationwide bureaus. Two months later, she applies for an auto loan. The dealer says its lender will use TransUnion.
Naomi temporarily lifts the TransUnion freeze for the application period while leaving the other two frozen. The lender obtains the report, creates a hard inquiry, and completes underwriting. Naomi then restores the TransUnion freeze.
During the same period, Naomi continues using her existing credit card, and its issuer continues sending balance and payment updates. Her credit score can change because the report changes even though access for new-credit applications is restricted.
| Feature | Credit freeze | Fraud alert |
|---|---|---|
| Main action | Restricts access for new credit | Tells businesses to verify identity before granting new credit |
| Bureau contact | Contact all three to freeze all files | Contact one; it must notify the other two for the alert |
| Cost | Free in the U.S. | Free in the U.S. |
| Duration | Until lifted | Initial alert generally lasts one year; other alert types differ |
| Report access | More restrictive | Report remains accessible |
The tools can be used together. An initial fraud alert is designed for someone who is or suspects they may be affected by identity theft, while anyone can place a freeze at any time.
A credit lock is a bureau product or feature that may offer app-based controls. A security freeze is a right governed by law. Terms, service agreements, identity-verification methods, and dispute procedures for a lock can differ from a statutory freeze.
Do not assume the words lock and freeze are interchangeable. Check which protection is active at each bureau and whether a paid subscription is involved.
For U.S. nationwide files:
Do not follow freeze links from unsolicited emails or texts. Navigate to official bureau or government guidance directly.
If identity theft has already occurred, a freeze is only one step. Review reports and accounts, contact affected institutions, and use IdentityTheft.gov for a recovery plan.
This article provides general financial education, not legal advice or an identity-theft recovery plan for a specific person.