Credit Freeze

Placing a credit freeze is the single most effective step you can take to protect your financial identity. By "locking" your credit reports, you essentially engage a proactive digital deadbolt that prevents identity thieves from opening new loans, credit cards, or utility accounts in your name. Since most lenders will not approve an application without first reviewing your credit history, a freeze stops fraudsters in their tracks before they can do any damage. Best of all, it is completely free, does not impact your credit score, and ensures that you remain the only person with the "key" to your financial profile. 

The Big Three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) cover traditional loans; the other specialty bureaus track banking, utilities, and alternative lending.

By federal law, freezing and unfreezing your credit at these bureaus is free.

1. Innovis (The "Fourth" Bureau)

Innovis is primarily used for identity verification and pre-screened offers. Freezing it helps prevent fraudsters from getting pre-approved offers in your name.  Follow the hyperlink below and fill out the form.  After filling out the form, a confirmation screen will show that the credit freeze is in place, and you will be told to expect an email confirming the credit freeze.  Be sure to save the contact information in case you need it in the future.  Innovis Consumer Assistance 1-800-540-2505 (PO Box 530088, Atlanta, GA 30353-0088).  After you place this credit freeze, Innovis will send you a packet in the mail that contains a Security Freeze PIN.  Put this in a safe place, the PIN will be needed if you need to remove this credit freeze.

• Online: Innovis Security Freeze

• Phone: 1-866-712-4546