Fraud Alert
A notice placed on your credit report asking lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before extending new credit. Lasts one year (or seven years for identity theft victims). Unlike a credit freeze, you only need to file a fraud alert with one bureau — it notifies the others automatically.
Related guides
- Full credit & FICO® glossary
Browse all defined terms by category.
- Credit Freeze
A free security measure that prevents creditors from accessing your credit report to open new accounts. Also called a security freeze. Freezes are placed at each bureau separately and remain in effect until you lift them. Does not affect your credit score or existing accounts.
- Identity Theft
When someone uses your personal information (Social Security number, credit card number, name and address) to commit fraud, typically opening accounts or taking out loans in your name. Identity theft can severely damage your credit and requires filing disputes with the credit bureaus and reporting to the FTC.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Alert
What does Fraud Alert mean?
A notice placed on your credit report asking lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before extending new credit. Lasts one year (or seven years for identity theft victims). Unlike a credit freeze, you only need to file a fraud alert with one bureau — it notifies the others automatically.
Is Fraud Alert important for my FICO® score?
Understanding Fraud Alert helps you manage your credit profile more effectively, which in turn supports a stronger FICO® score.