Fraud alert on credit report

If you’re worried about becoming a victim of identity theft, you can place a free fraud alert on your credit report. TransUnion offers three types of fraud alerts, and you can choose the option that best fits your needs.

What is a fraud alert?

A fraud alert is a free tool you can use to place a layer of protection on your credit report. A fraud alert is different from a credit freeze. When you have a fraud alert on your credit report, creditors are notified to take extra steps to verify your identity before extending credit. If you place a credit freeze, it blocks all third parties, including creditors, unless legally exempt, from accessing your credit report. In addition to the free weekly credit reports you can get at annualcreditreport.com, you’re entitled to a free credit report with an initial fraud alert or two free credit reports with an extended fraud alert.

What does a fraud alert on your credit report do?

When you place a fraud alert on your credit report, a statement is added to your credit file. It’s a signal that you’re either concerned about being a victim or have been a victim of identity theft. When you place your fraud alert, you will be asked to provide your phone number. This number will be used by creditors to confirm your identity any time an application for credit is being made. A fraud alert has no impact on your credit score.

 

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