I applaud the recent decision by America’s three major credit bureaus to allow all consumers to freeze their credit reports to prevent identity theft.

America’s three national credit bureaus – Experian, TransUnion and Equifax – have provided the credit freeze option to consumers nationwide. Previously, it took state legislation before consumers could order their accounts frozen. A credit freeze blocks the credit bureaus from releasing your credit history – the report on which your credit score is based. Most lenders will not extend credit unless they can review your credit report and score. Consumers should carefully consider whether a freeze is appropriate for them because it prevents all new credit applications for credit in their name.

Credit freezes the most effective means to thwart identity thieves who seek to fraudulently establish credit in your name – but it is not an appropriate protection for every consumer. Only individuals who are satisfied with the credit already extended to them and are not in the market for a new credit card, mortgage or other financing should request a freeze. Freezes are particularly valuable for those at increased risk of identity theft, including seniors, active duty military personnel and students.

The credit bureaus have always offered freezes at no charge to victims of identity theft. Now other consumers can pay $30 in fees ($10 to each of the three bureaus) if they wish to freeze their credit history. They must pay another $30 to unfreeze. Each bureau must be contacted individually and has its own procedure for establishing or lifting a freeze. The bureaus may be reached at:

Equifax
www.equifax.com
800.685.1111
P.O. Box 740241
Atlanta, GA 30374-0241

Experian (formerly TRW)
www.experian.com
888.397.3742
P.O. Box 2104
Allen, TX 75013

TransUnion
www.transunion.com
800.888.4213
P.O. Box 2000
Chester, PA 19022

My Office provides an Identity Theft Repair Kit with tips on how to stop identity thieves and advice on what to do if you become a victim. For more information or to get help, go to our Web site at www.azag.gov or call our Identity Theft Hotline at 602.542.2125.

Terry Goddard