Protect your credit | U.S. PIRG Education Fund

When Equifax lost the critical financial data of more than 147 million Americans, it was a startling reminder that we need a lot more control over our personal information.

We didn't hire the three big credit unions—Equifax, Experian and TransUnion—to collect and sell financial data about us, and we certainly didn't give them permission to lose it. So why should we have to pay them to keep our financial information private and secure? We shouldn’t. And we should have more control over our own information.

We’re working to make sure that consumers know their rights after Equifax exposed the financial data of more than 147 million Americans. If you haven't taken steps to protect yourself after the Equifax data breach, we recommend you take a look at the resources provided below. We answer some of the most common questions we get from consumers about how they can protect themselves from identity thieves.

SECURITY FREEZE Q & A

How can I protect myself from identity theft?

Request a free credit report. All three credit bureaus must give any consumer one free report per year by law. Suspected fraud victims are eligible for additional free reports. Be on the lookout for any illegal or unusual activity.

SECURITY FREEZE Q & A

Should I freeze access to my credit report?

One of the best ways to stop new account identity theft is by freezing access to your credit report—which is now free. See resources below.

Will a security freeze make it hard for me to get a loan?

You can unfreeze or “thaw” your credit report when you want to apply for new credit. Freezes can be temporarily or permanently lifted when you want.

Will a security freeze hurt my credit score?

A security freeze does not affect your credit score. In fact, a security freeze can protect your score if someone tries to fraudulently apply for credit in your name.

Can I get a security freeze for my children?

Security freezes can also be placed by parents and legal guardians of minors and medically incapacitated consumers.

Keeping Your Online Identity Safe

We live in the age of big data. More and more information about the private details of our lives is collected, analyzed and sold by massive financial institutions, and, too often, this information is handled irresponsibly, or put at risk without our consent or control.

Freezing Your Credit Report Is Now Free

Freezing your credit report can stop identity thieves from opening new accounts in your name with your Social Security number.

Here’s how it works: Most creditors won’t issue you new credit without first viewing your credit report. If your credit reports are frozen, someone else can’t open an account in your name. You can still use your credit card. Your credit score won’t be affected. You’ll just be safer from identity thieves.

Find Out More

RESOURCE: Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

We’re ensuring consumers have the tools they need to protect themselves from identity thieves.

SECURITY FREEZE Q & A

How can I protect myself from identity theft?

SECURITY FREEZE Q & A

Should I freeze access to my credit report?

Will a security freeze make it hard for me to get a loan?

Will a security freeze hurt my credit score?

Can I get a security freeze for my children?