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Fraud Alerts and Security Freezes

Initial fraud Alert

Placing an initial fraud alert on your account means that for a period of 90 days businesses must verify your identity before issuing credit. It entitles you to a free credit report from each bureau. Note that it also may delay legitimate requests for credit.

Extended fraud Alert

Placing an extended fraud alert has longer term effects and requires that you furnish a copy of your Identity Theft Report. For a period of seven years businesses must verify your identity before issuing credit and may delay legitimate requests for credit. You are also entitled to two free credit reports from each bureau. Your name is removed from marketing lists for pre-approved credit offers for five years.

Security Freeze

A New York State security freeze prevents lenders and others from accessing your credit reports. To allow access to your credit you provide a pin number, identify the company to be allowed access and you pay a small fee. The freeze remains in effect until you request that it be lifted.