Protect against ID theft with a credit freeze

Credit freeze is the only effective, proactive tool to stop new account fraud, one of the most damaging forms of identity theft. A freeze allows consumers to bar access to their credit files with the three major credit reporting agencies (CRAs), prohibiting identity thieves from fraudulently opening new accounts or lines of credit in a victim’s name.


Credit freezes are $3 for all Georgia citizens and are FREE to all seniors 65+ and victims of identity theft with a valid police report.


In order to request this service, you must send a letter by certified mail to each of the three credit reporting agencies containing:


* $3 payment via check or money order
* Name
* Address
* Date of birth
* Social Security number
* A copy of a government-issued identification card, such as a driver’s license, state or military ID card.
* One copy of a utility bill, bank or insurance statement. Credit card statements, voided checks, lease agreements, magazine subscriptions and postal service forwarding are not accepted as proof.
* A copy of a valid police report, if you are a victim of identity theft.


Send your request via certified mail to all three credit reporting agencies:


Equifax Security Freeze
P.O. Box 105788
Atlanta, Georgia 30348


Experian Security Freeze
P.O. Box 9554
Allen, TX 75013


TransUnion Fraud Victim Assistance Department
P.O. Box 6790
Fullerton, CA 92834


You can also freeze your credit online by going to each bureau’s website and following the directions.
Equifax
Experian
TransUnion