What Is a Security Freeze?
A security freeze, also sometimes known as a credit freeze, is a step you can take to limit the release of your credit report if credit, loans or services are being opened in your name without your permission. You will need to request a freeze with Experian and the other credit reporting companies (TransUnion and Equifax) separately. It's important to know that if you place a security freeze on your credit file, it will limit new businesses' ability to obtain a copy of your credit report in connection with any new applications for credit. Before you apply for new credit, you will need to temporarily lift the security freeze following the procedures below.
How Do I Set Up a Security Freeze?
The process to place a credit freeze on your Experian credit file requires that you directly contact us online, by phone or through the mail.
Types of information you should be prepared with when placing a security freeze for the first time or requesting a security freeze by mail include:
- Your full name, including middle initial and suffix, such as Jr., Sr., II, III
- Social Security number
- Date of birth
- Current address
- Complete addresses for the past two years
- Email address
- A copy of a government-issued identification card, such as a driver's license or state ID card
- A copy of a utility bill, bank or insurance statement, etc.
Online:
Experian - www.experian.com/freeze
Phone:
1-888-EXPERIAN
Mail:
Experian
P.O. Box 9554
Allen, TX 75013
How Do I Remove the Security Freeze?
To remove the security freeze, temporarily or permanently, log in or create an Experian account to update your security freeze status to "unfrozen."