Equifax Review

Equifax is one of the main credit reference agencies, (alongside Experian and TransUnion) and as well as holding credit history files on consumers, also offers identity theft protection services. Identity theft is one of the fastest growing fraudulent crimes in the world, and it can be difficult, time consuming and sometimes very costly for victims to clear their names. Therefore it is important that you protect your own personal information as much as possible.
 
Equifax Credit Watch
 
For UK citizens Equifax offers two Credit Watch packages, both of which provide you, and any nominated members of your family, with a simple way to protect your personal identity from fraudsters. Credit Watch automatically monitors your credit file and alerts you if any application for credit, or changes to existing information have been made, and also guides you through reporting and changing any erroneous or fraudulent entries.
 
· Credit Watch Silver, $3.99 per month – this package offers you an inclusive copy of your Equifax credit file and also access to customer support (Mon-Fri 9a, - 5pm). This service alerts you within seven days of any changes or additions to your credit file, and can also automatically send alerts to a nominated mobile phone number. You will also be sent tips on how to protect your personal information and general news about identity theft.
 
· Credit Watch Gold, $7.50 per month – this package offers you unlimited access to your Equifax credit file, and will alert you within 24hrs of any new activity, (alerts can also be sent to your mobile). You will also get inclusive customer support, personal information protection tips and news regarding identity theft issues. You can try Credit Watch Gold free for 30 days at the moment, to see if this service suits you before signing up.
 
Equifax Id Patrol
 
For consumers in the US Equifax offers ID Patrol, an identify theft protection package from $14.95 per month, which provides some good features including:
 
* Credit File – access to your credit file so that you can review it for any potentially fraudulent activity.

* Fraud Alerts - Like Credit Watch, ID Patrol monitors your Equifax credit file and alerts you when any new activity has taken place.
* Web Search – this service searches the Internet to ensure your personal information is not being traded or published online.
* Insurance – ID Patrol offers insurance for up to $20,000 to help cover the costs in the event your identity is stolen and used by fraudsters.
* Credit Recovery Team – this team of experienced advisors will be available to help you resolve any identity theft issues, and also advise you on how protect your personal information in the future.
* Members Area – ID Patrol provides you with access to a member’s area, where you can ask questions and see comments from other ID Patrol subscribers.
 
Identity theft is a serious crime, and can have devastating effects on the victim’s credit rating and good name, so it is important that you protect your personal information, and take immediate action if you suspect your identity has been compromised.
 
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