How to place, thaw or lift a security freeze

Abstract

When a security freeze is in place, a business that receives an application for products or services cannot get access to your credit report without your permission. The freeze will not affect your ability to pull your own credit report or receive credit monitoring services and businesses you currently have a relationship with can still access your report. To place a freeze you must contact each of the three major credit reporting agencies. When you place the freeze, you will receive a Personal Identification Number (PIN). When you want to apply for new products or services, the PIN will be required to temporarily lift (‘thaw”) the freeze either for a specified creditor or a specified time. The PIN is also needed to permanently remove the freeze. Make sure to keep it in a safe place. It is FREE to place, thaw and lift the freeze for South Carolina residents.