TrustedID offers a service called CreditLock™. It’s designed to make placing a security freeze simple and easy. It’s also totally optional.

A security freeze is different from a fraud alert. If you request a security freeze, you won’t be able to get any new credit at all. Neither will a thief. Before you can apply for new credit, you’ll have to unfreeze your files.

With a fraud alert, you’re able to open new credit accounts. This type of alert simply requests that you be called at the phone number you provided to verify it’s really you wanting to open the new account. Under most circumstances, this works quite well.

The freeze is totally secure but can be a pain to do. Depending on the state you live in, you have to pay about $10 at Experian, Equifax and TransUnion to place the freeze. Then you’ll have to pay the same amount again to unfreeze. Trusted ID’s CreditLock takes the hassle out of this by administering it for you via certified mail.  You only have to call one of their Protection Specialists to place the order. Do this at a time that’s convenient for you - they’re available 24/7.

As far as I know, TrustedID is the only identity theft protection company that offers this service.

You’ll need to plan in advance before applying for any new credit accounts because it does take some time to process.

How do you know if using CreditLock is right for you?

If you’ve been a victim of identity theft or concerned that you’re at high risk, then you should use it. Also, if your personal information has been lost in a data breech, you’ll be able to prevent any thieves or hackers from accessing your good name.

When would a plain fraud alert be better?

If you like to use ‘instant credit’, apply for new credit cards often or want to change cell phone carriers, then you’ll do better to have just the fraud alert. Also, if you plan to apply for a mortgage or car loan in the near future, you’ll have to have your credit available. Place the freeze after your loan application has been approved.

Here’s another article about this: Security Freeze vs Fraud Alert.