Credit Freeze vs Fraud Alert vs Credit Lock
A freeze blocks most new creditors from seeing the file until you lift it. A fraud alert tells them to check harder. A “credit lock” is usually a bureau product, not the FCRA freeze. If the job is “nobody opens accounts in my name,” freeze all three.
Freeze — the strong default
Federal law: placing, lifting, and removing a freeze is free. You must do Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion separately. Store the PINs. A freeze does not shut off cards you already have and does not stop existing creditors from reviewing the file in many cases.
Fraud alert — lighter, faster
Contact one bureau; they notify the other two. Initial alert is typically one year. With an IdentityTheft.gov report you can request an extended alert (seven years). Lenders are supposed to take extra verification steps. A motivated fraudster plus a sloppy lender can still get through. Freeze is stronger.
Lock vs freeze
Locks live in apps and paid bundles. Convenient. Not the same legal tool. If you are choosing one thing after theft, freeze.
When you need credit on purpose
Mortgage, auto, apartment: lift (or time-box lift) the freeze at the bureau that lender uses — ask them which. Then freeze again. Do not leave the file open for months “just in case.”