Security Freezes for Protected Consumers
Protected Consumers in South Carolina now have a right to place a “security freeze” on their credit reports. A security freeze stops potential creditors and other third parties from accessing a protected consumer’s credit report without their consent. Protected consumers include anyone under the age of sixteen at the time the request is made, or anyone who is incapacitated for whom a guardian has been appointed.
To place a security freeze, submit a request to a consumer reporting agency below. Sufficient proof of identification for the protected consumer will be required. A freeze will be placed within 30 days of the CRA receiving the completed request.
To request a freeze, log on to any of the following CRA websites:
• www.experian.com/freeze, or call 1-888-397-3742
• http://freeze.transunion.com, or call 1-888-909-8872
• https://www.freeze.equifax.com
The freeze will remain in effect until the protected consumer or guardian decides otherwise. A pin number will be provided when the freeze is placed, and can be used to thaw or lift the freeze. There is no fee to place or remove a freeze on a protected consumer in South Carolina.
For more information on protecting against ID Theft, visit the “Identity Theft Resources” page at www.consumer.sc.gov.
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