temporarily lift security freeze equifax

How to Temporarily Lift Your Security Freeze with Equifax

In the wake of the massive Equifax data breach in 2017, many consumers took steps to protect their personal information by freezing their credit reports. A security freeze prevents lenders and other creditors from accessing your credit reports without your consent, making it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts or lines of credit in your name.

However, there may be times when you need to temporarily lift a security freeze on your Equifax credit report, such as when applying for a loan or credit card. Fortunately, Equifax allows you to do so online, by phone, or by mail.

To lift a security freeze on your Equifax credit report online, you will need to create a 'myEquifax' account and follow the prompts to request a temporary lift. You can also choose to lift the freeze for a specific creditor or for a specified period of time, ranging from one day to one year.

When lifting a security freeze temporarily, it's essential to keep in mind that you cannot change the date range once your request has been submitted. It's also important to note that you will need a PIN to unfreeze your credit if you choose to do so by phone or mail.

In addition to online freezing and unfreezing, Equifax also offers a single-use PIN that can help ensure your information is seen only by the creditor you authorize. This can be especially helpful if you're concerned about exposing your personal information unnecessarily.

It's worth noting that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends temporarily lifting a security freeze at the same credit bureau that will contact the business, rather than trying to lift the freeze at multiple bureaus. This can save time and reduce frustration.

Overall, temporarily lifting a security freeze on your Equifax credit report is a straightforward process that can help you access credit when needed while still maintaining control over your personal information. By understanding the options available and taking the necessary steps, you can protect your identity and avoid potential fraud.

Temporarily lift security freeze equifax