Keep your credit file locked down

    Default to 'frozen' and only thaw briefly when you genuinely need credit.

    JDCS
    By Jordan Dickson · Reviewed by CSG Security Engineers

    Updated June 2026 · 1 min read

    A frozen credit file is the single most effective long-term defence against credit fraud. Lenders simply can't open new accounts without you actively unlocking it.

    Living with a freeze

    Most freezes can be temporarily lifted in minutes via the bureau app or website. The minor friction of unfreezing for a real application is far cheaper than another round of fraud.

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    JD

    Written by

    Jordan Dickson

    Founder, CyberSecurityGuides

    Founder of CyberSecurityGuides, writing practical, jargon-free guides that help everyday people recover from and protect against online attacks.

    Reviewed by CSG Security Engineers

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