Should I lock my credit report with Equifax?

Should I lock my credit report with Equifax?

Locking your Equifax® credit report can help better protect against unauthorized access for the purposes of opening new accounts in your name. … Unless you temporarily lift or permanently remove a security freeze, or unlock your credit reports, they can't be accessed to open new accounts – with certain exceptions.

How long does a Equifax credit freeze last?

seven yearsFreezes can be placed by phone or online. You'll get a PIN to use each time you freeze or unfreeze, which may take one to three business days. How long does it last? A freeze lasts until you temporarily lift or permanently remove it (except in a few states where freezes expire after seven years).

How do I put a freeze on my credit?

If you want to freeze your credit, you need to do it at each of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax (1-800-349-9960), TransUnion (1-888-909-8872) and Experian (1-888-397-3742). If you request a freeze, be sure to store the passwords you'll need to thaw your credit in a safe place.

Why did Equifax freeze my credit?

Freezes are federally regulated. Once a freeze is placed on one of your credit reports, it prevents access to it by certain third parties, like lenders and creditors you're requesting new credit from. … Placing a security freeze on your Equifax credit report will prevent access to it by certain third parties.