Identity theft remains one of the fastest-growing financial crimes, and Florida consistently ranks among the top states for reported cases. The two most powerful tools at your disposal are fraud alerts and credit freezes. Both are free and effective.
What Is a Fraud Alert?
A notation on your credit file that tells creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity before opening new accounts.
Types of Fraud Alerts
- Initial Fraud Alert — lasts one year, no documentation required
- Extended Fraud Alert — lasts seven years, requires identity theft report
- Active Duty Military Alert — lasts one year
Contact any one bureau — they notify the other two: Equifax (1-800-525-6285), Experian (1-888-397-3742), TransUnion (1-800-680-7289).
What Is a Credit Freeze?
A freeze completely blocks access to your credit report by new creditors. No one can open accounts in your name.
- Remains in place indefinitely
- Completely free since September 2018
- Must freeze with each bureau separately
- Does not affect your credit score
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Fraud Alert | Credit Freeze |
|---|---|---|
| Protection Level | Moderate | Strong |
| Duration | 1-7 years | Indefinite |
| Cost | Free | Free |
| Bureaus to Contact | One | All three |
| Impact on Score | None | None |
| Can Apply for Credit? | Yes, with extra verification | Must lift freeze first |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a Fraud Alert If:
- You received a data breach notification
- You want quick, low-friction protection
- You plan to apply for credit soon
Choose a Credit Freeze If:
- You have confirmed identity theft
- You want the strongest protection
- You're not applying for new credit soon
- Your Social Security number was compromised
You can use both simultaneously for maximum protection.
What to Do If You Are a Victim
- Place fraud alert and credit freeze
- File identity theft report at IdentityTheft.gov
- File a police report
- Dispute all fraudulent accounts
- Notify your bank and credit card companies
- Review credit reports regularly
See also: checking your credit report, Florida SNAP benefits, IRS Fresh Start.
See What Benefits You Qualify For
Take our free 60-second assessment to discover programs that could save you thousands.
Start Free Assessment →Frequently Asked Questions
Will a credit freeze prevent me from using my existing credit cards?
No. A freeze only affects new credit applications. Existing accounts continue to function normally.
How long does it take to lift a credit freeze?
Under federal law, the freeze must be lifted within one hour if requested online or by phone.
Do fraud alerts and freezes protect against all types of identity theft?
They protect against new account fraud. They do not prevent tax return fraud, existing account takeover, or health insurance fraud.
Should I also freeze my child's credit?
Yes, especially if their Social Security number may have been compromised. All three bureaus allow parents to freeze a minor's credit file.
