Credit Freeze vs Credit Lock: How Do They Differ?​

In the age of data and identity theft, a credit lock and credit freeze help protect your credit profile. Here’s what they mean and how they differ.

Credit freeze

A credit freeze is a measure taken to prevent access to your credit data when you suspect unauthorised activity.

Credit freeze features:

• Initiated by calling or emailing the credit bureau
• It’s free
• Done when suspicious activity is suspected

Credit lock

A credit lock serves the same purpose as a credit freeze by preventing unauthorised access to your credit report. Though similar, their features vary.

Credit lock features:

• Enabled on the bureau’s app or website
• Incurs a fee
• Preventive measure to protect your information

Credit freezes/locks do not impact your credit score. You can use any of these modes to keep your profile protected.

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