How to Freeze Your Credit After a Data Breach
A credit freeze is one of the single most effective things you can do after a data breach. Here's how it works and how to set one up.
What a credit freeze actually does
A credit freeze blocks lenders and other companies from accessing your credit report, which means they generally can't open new credit in your name — even if a fraudster has your Social Security number.
How to freeze your credit at all three bureaus
You'll need to contact Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion separately — freezing with one bureau does not freeze the others. Each offers a free online freeze option; you'll receive a PIN or password to lift it later.
When you'll need to lift it
If you're applying for new credit, you can temporarily lift the freeze for a specific lender or timeframe, then re-freeze afterward.
Freeze vs. fraud alert
A fraud alert just requires lenders to verify your identity before extending credit; a freeze blocks access outright. For a serious breach, a freeze offers stronger protection.
Key takeaway
A credit freeze is free, doesn't hurt your score, and is one of the strongest single steps you can take after a breach — but you must freeze all three bureaus separately.