Best Identity Theft Protection Services of 2021

With the constant news of data breaches & security hacks, it makes sense that consumers are worried about their personal information being stolen. Fortunately, there are ways to stay safe and even recover if these details are leaked. This review will share the best identity theft protection available.

Jerry Carter - Editorial Staff

Updated: March 2, 2021

What We Did to Find the Best

It took a lot of researching and digging, but the results were worth it. Consumers deserve to feel protected against hackers who want to steal their name and personal details. To find the most reliable options out there, it was important to look at a few key factors.

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

To compile this list, it was important to analyze the identity theft protection services based on key metrics like features & equipment, customer support, cost, ease of use, trust score (positive and negative reviews). From there, each supplier earned a score from 0 to 10 for each metric. Then the average value is calculated, and the total estimations contributed to their position on this list. Readers can trust this review because it scoured dozens of client surveys, consults, blog posts, and articles.

1. LifeLock: A Full Cyber-Security Company

Total Score 9.5/10

Lifelock Reviews
LifeLock Identity Theft Protection
LifeLock Identity Theft
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Customer Support9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use9.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A-
Best for Сomprehensive Сoverage

This company focuses on all-in-one cyber safety and even has actress Angie Harmon as a spokesperson. It works together with the Norton antivirus software to keep clients protected across the World Wide Web. Unique details include blocking public WiFi networks and securing VPN information around the nation, as well as reimbursement of stolen funds. The return amount is dependent upon the specific identity theft protection plans.

Pros:

  • Blocks ad trackers
  • Clients can protect all devices
  • Checks in with credit bureaus & USPS
  • Lost Wallet Protection
  • Notifications about data breaches
  • Parental controls
  • 24/7 support

Cons:

  • Association with Equifax
  • History of deceptive advertising
  • Pricing

This provider is a good choice for those who want comprehensive identity theft protection coverage, and they can choose from a variety of plans depending on their budget. The more expensive packages will cover more protection services, but even $10 a month is a great deal. The team will track the activity on a client’s bank account, credit card, and 401(k), as well as reimburse stolen funds up to $1 million.

They also assist with credit monitoring at the three major bureaus, although their association with Equifax worries some consumers since there was a data breach a few years ago. Even so, 24/7 support and multi-device security are two perks to this provider. There are also restoration specialists on-call, and mobile alerts whenever anything suspicious comes up. The agents will make sure that a customer’s name isn’t floating around the Dark Web or at a new physical address, too.


2. IdentityForce: A Budget-Friendly Choice

Total Score 9.3/10

IdentityForce Main
IdentityForce Products Price
IdentityForce Products Price v2
  • Features & Equipment8.5/10
  • Customer Support8.5/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use9.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best For Families

This provider has two primary identity theft protection plans, both of which are highly affordable. They cost less than $20 per month and include things like real-time alerts and tracking for bank account information, credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, and requests for credit reports. Clients can set up two-factor authentication for their financial records, and their identities will be protected online and offline. Insurance policies can reimburse them up to $1 million, depending on the plan.

Pros:

  • Call, email, and text alerts
  • Family plan perks
  • Health insurance fraud alerts
  • Less expensive credit bureau monitoring
  • Protects credit, financial, and personal info
  • 24/7 tracking
  • 2017 Stevie Award winner

Cons:

  • Confusing registration/application
  • Hard to differentiate packages
  • Inconsistent pricing

The business has been recognized as a leader in ID theft security, and its family-friendly policies are popular with lots of consumers. Parents can protect their kids up until they are 25. The company regularly checks in with the three major credit bureaus and sends that information to customers in real-time. Agents are there to track anything that involves using a person’s ID, from taking out a loan, paying off a mortgage, browsing the Web, or reporting a crime.

Clients should set up email or text reminders, so they are always aware of any changes or data alerts. They can also opt-out of junk mail and annoying third-party correspondence to better protect themselves from scammers.


3. Identity Guard: Best All-Around

Total Score 9.2/10

Identity Guard Review
Identity Guard Plans
Identity Guard Plans Family
  • Features & Equipment9.0/10
  • Customer Support8.5/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use8.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for Tech-lovers

Here is a high-tech option for those who want all the bells and whistles. The service uses artificial intelligence from IBM’s Watson to provide full protection. This includes security for credit, personal, and financial actions, both online and offline. Individual and family plans are available, as is a 30-day free trial and guarantee. The insurance policy reimburses up to $1 million in stolen funds, and U.S.-based case managers will assist every step of the way.

Pros:

  • Affordability
  • Anti-phishing software
  • IBM Watson AI
  • Safe browsing extension
  • Social media reporting/tracking
  • Technological advancements
  • 30-day free trial

Cons:

  • Lower-tiered plans lack features
  • More expensive than others
  • No child-specific plans

This provider has identity theft protection plans for just about anyone. Not only that, but the team is nationally recognized and has decent personal reviews. The affordability, combined with technological advancements, makes it a solid choice.

Some of the highlights include risk management scores, so people are always aware of any sketchy transactions they’re getting into. The service also tracks any report or information on the Dark Web and uses anti-phishing tools and social insight reports to send out monthly safety updates. Consumers will receive alerts for any changes that occur at the three major credit bureaus, as well as if there are any bank account takeovers or requests to open a new checking or savings under their name. An online dashboard and mobile app detect the use of SSN, name, address, health insurance number, financial details, and more.


4. Complete ID: Top Child Protection Plans

Total Score 8.9/10

Complete ID Reviews
CompleteId Pricing
Complete ID Pricing
  • Features & Equipment8.0/10
  • Customer Support8.5/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for Children

Consumers might recognize this protection plan if they have a Costco membership. They can get a discounted rate on identity theft protection plans from this provider and take advantage of up to $1 million in insurance. Plus, this supplier is owned by Experian, one of the top three credit bureaus. That adds a lot of validity to its services, which include Social Security and fraud alerts, Dark Web surveillance, and Identity Status Checks. The 360 monitoring means that agents look at thousands of resources to watch for warning signs of fraudulent loans, applications, and transactions.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Experian-owned
  • Fraud notifications
  • Keeps tabs on credit scores
  • Professional resources
  • SSN protection
  • 360 monitoring

Cons:

  • Child protection is an add-on
  • For Costco members only
  • Works with third-parties

Consumers will instantly know about any unusual changes or activity on their credit cards, bank statements, or financial applications. They will even get advice from experts on what steps they should take next to avoid trouble. Some other perks are the regular monitors on a client’s name to ensure that criminals and scammers aren’t damaging their reputation or using their information to commit fraud. This also extends to instances in which individuals may use a customer’s name upon getting arrested.

For people with children, there are kid-specific services that keep little ones’ identities safe and sound. This prevents a child from growing up only to find that they have terrible credit because of fraudulent actions.


5. Privacy Guard: Best Do-it-All Provider

Total Score 8.8/10

Privace Guard Main
PrivaceGuard Pricing
PrivaceGuard
  • Features & Equipment8.0/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best For No-Frills Customers

This supplier has many of the benefits that other identity theft protection companies have, although there are a few gaps in coverage. The mobile app and secure browsing extension help to keep clients protected while perusing the Web, a dangerous place where scammers lurk around every virtual corner. Also, there are ample resources for agents to scour to secure identities and spot any new unusual activity. Daily monitoring, monthly tracking, and annual reports ensure that no stone goes unturned.

Pros:

  • Annual reports
  • Daily credit monitors
  • Fraud resolution support
  • Free trial
  • Public record updates
  • Record scans
  • $1 million insurance policy

Cons:

  • Individual plans only
  • No social media alerts
  • Not as comprehensive as competitors

One of the nice things about this provider is that they help to drastically cut down on junk mail, which isn’t only annoying but also dangerous. The company also keeps track of public records, including court filings and criminal arrests. Insurance policies cover up to $1 million in reimbursements, and customers can set up any phone, email, and text notifications, so they always stay in the loop. The Digital identity theft protection app is convenient and straightforward, with a secure mobile keyboard and sensitive transaction checks.

Other perks include lost wallet assistance, Dark Web surveillance, and a wide range of financial and credit services. Educational resources help young adults stay ahead of their monetary security, and different plan options will appeal to families and individuals.


6. Zander Insurance: Recommended by Financial Guru Dave Ramsey

Total Score 8.7/10

Zander Main
Zander Features
Zander Plans
  • Features & Equipment8.0/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use7.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10
BBB Rating A+
Best for Families on a Budget

Those who look to money expert Dave Ramsey for help will know that he confidently recommends this company. What makes it a favorite among professionals is its variety of protection services, continuous monitoring, and a 100% recovery success rate. Moreover, unlike other companies, the family plan covers children under age 18 at no extra cost.

The downside is that there is no credit report monitoring with this supplier. Even so, their record tracking extends to financial and tax fraud, medical ID theft, criminal identification theft, compromised Social Security numbers, fraudulent benefits and employment, and protection for children.

Pros:

  • All-day/year support
  • Certified specialists
  • Child-specific security monitoring
  • Expert-recommended
  • Pricing
  • Variety of protection services
  • 100% recovery success rate.

Cons:

  • Doesn't monitor credit reports
  • No mobile app
  • No text alerts

Even though this identity theft protection brand doesn’t offer reports on credit scores, it does have the trust of leading financial gurus, such as Rachel Cruze and Forbes experts. The transparency of the company can’t be understated. It brings all of its resources together to bring consumers a perfect blend of professional assistance and technological security advancements.

Families will appreciate that they can cover kids up to age 18 without paying extra, and there is no limit on how many minors can be on a policy. The price is right, and the full restoration and recovery services have a 100% success rate, which no one can argue with. The tracking feature will look at clients’ licenses, bank accounts, passports, medical cards, retail memberships, and more to keep them safe from scammers.


7. ID Shield: Great Spousal Support

Total Score 8.6/10

ID Shield Main
ID Shield Choose Plan
ID Shield Features
  • Features & Equipment8.0/10
  • Customer Support7,5/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use7.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10
idshield-logo-sidebar
BBB Rating A+
Best for Individuals who like to lay low

This ID theft protection provider is a family-friendly company that works across the United States and Canada. That means they have over a million customers, plus they’ve been around for over four decades. They’re reliable, even if they don’t have all of the fancy services that the newer competition has.

What this brand does provide is vital monitoring of Social Security numbers, credit, and financial accounts. They check in with the Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion and look at public records, including the sex offender registry, court documents, and loan applications.

Pros:

  • Accesses 78 billion public records
  • Child monitoring included
  • High-risk transaction alerts
  • Instant hard inquiry notifications
  • Investment security
  • New application alerts
  • Social media monitors

Cons:

  • Doesn't come with computer safety
  • Limited mobile app
  • No free trial

Just because the tracking and monitoring may not be the most in-depth, that doesn’t mean that this company isn’t worth a shot. Individuals who tend to lie low and are very careful with their information should be just fine with this provider. It’s great that the team assists with offline and online records, including social media, which is necessary today.

Anytime a consumer’s details are accessed, the agents will send a notification. Not only that, but the support staff looks out for any incriminating posts about their clients or anything that will hurt their reputation. The identity theft protection app has a monthly score tracker that people can use to see a visual representation of their standing at each of the credit bureaus.


8. IDnotify: Experian-Owned, Great for Young Adults

Total Score 8.3/10

IDnotify Main
IDnotify How It Works
IDnotify Pricing
  • Features & Equipment7.0/10
  • Customer Support7.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease of Use7.5/10
  • Trust Score10/10
idnotify-logo-sidebar
BBB Rating A-
Best for Young Adults

This is an id theft protection backed by Experian, one of the three major credit bureaus. Its flexible pricing means that it is accessible to a wide clientele, and the child add-ons make it a solid choice for families. Besides that, this provider utilizes lots of data resources to keep customers aware of financial account takeovers, SSN tracing, and more. Plus, the U.S.-based staff is available 24/7. While child monitoring costs extra, it’s only $5.99 per month, which is very reasonable.

Pros:

  • Child monitoring
  • Easy sign-up
  • Exposure notifications
  • Internet surveillance
  • Monthly VantageScore update
  • Owned by Experian
  • 24/7 restoration team

Cons:

  • Child monitoring costs extra
  • Lacks some advanced features
  • No mobile app

What makes this identity theft protection supplier so great is that it protects consumers on so many fronts. For instance, if a customer’s name pops up on the Dark Web, they’re going to know about it swiftly. Furthermore, clients don’t have to fret over a lost wallet because all they need to do is let the company know. The agents will take care of the rest. Social network monitors will let individuals know if their name is floating around on a fraudulent profile.

There are three pricing tiers, with the lowest one offering only the essentials. It would be best to opt for the second or third package for the best results. This is because they include monthly VantageScores, social media monitoring, Internet surveillance, change of address notifications, court records and bookings, and more.


9. AllClear ID: Best Employer-Focused Plans

Total Score 8.2/10

AllClear ID Main
AllClear ID Features
AllClear ID Identity Protection Products
  • Features & Equipment7.0/10
  • Customer Support8.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use7.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10
allclearid-logo-sidebar
BBB Rating A+
Best for Employers

This is an ID theft protection that is specially designed for employers. It is a referrals-only company, meaning that individuals can only sign up through an invitation from a business. Pricing averages at about $14.95 per month, but exact costs aren’t available to the public since this is a referral-only service. Those who don’t get invited to the program will have to choose some other agency. Benefits include online and offline protection and restoration and recovery assistance.

Pros:

  • Annual VantageScores
  • Award-winning supplie
  • Charges businesses, not consumers
  • ChildScan monitoring
  • Phone notifications
  • TransUnion fraud alerts
  • 100% resolution success rate

Cons:

  • Alerts require manual set-up
  • No criminal or public record monitoring
  • Referrals only

This watchdog scours hundreds of thousands of resources and data to keep clients safe. This protects against everything from opening fraudulent bank accounts, applying for loans, and damaging credit. Moreover, agents will fight to maintain the good reputation of customers, even if scammers try to drag their name through the mud. The team is comprised of real investigators, too.

The disadvantages (besides being invitation-only), include a lack of social media and file-sharing monitors. There also isn’t any access to public or criminal records. That said, there is ample surveillance of financial accounts, Social Security numbers, medical and prescription card usage, and identity theft protection for children, seniors, and the deceased.


10. ID Watchdog: No-Frills Security

Total Score 8.2/10

ID Watchdog Main
ID Watchdog Price
ID Watchdog About Us
  • Features & Equipment7.0/10
  • Customer Support7.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease of Use8.0/10
  • Trust Score10/10
idwatchdog-logo-sidebar
BBB Rating A+
Best for Basic Plan

This is an identity theft protection service for those who are fine with a more basic amount of coverage. That being said, this company still provides ample protection. For instance, it monitors changes of address with the USPS, Dark Web navigation, and detects easy-to-obtain loans in the customer’s name. The support staff is on-call 24/7 and speaks 100 languages to serve customers better nationwide. Pricing is on par with competitors, although the packages are more basic.

Pros:

  • Assists with pre-existing ID theft
  • Case management & resolution services
  • Credit report simulator
  • Good for lower budgets
  • Looks through billions of public records
  • Recipient of several ID protection awards
  • User-friendly

Cons:

  • Fewer monitoring options
  • Limited mobile accessibility
  • Tracking reports can take 24 hours to complete

While the team will let clients know about any changes or suspicious activity regarding their financial and personal data, customers can customize their notifications accordingly. This includes phone calls, emails, and text messages. There is also a company-specific mobile app, although it’s less comprehensive.

In the case that someone’s ID is stolen, the company springs into action to assist with resolution. The team is made up of Certified Identity Theft Risk Management Specialists that work until the problem is solved. Other services include monitoring with the three major credit bureaus and regular check-ups on reports and scores. Healthcare professionals can take advantage of the company’s National Provider Identifier alerts that can fight against medical fraud.


Best Identity Theft Protection Services (Pricing & Features)

Below is a side-by-side view of the 10 options in this review. Check out who offers the most sought-after features and tools, such as recovery and restoration and Web surveillance.

Provider Total Score Price/mo BBB Rating Trial Period Family Plan Insurance Coverage Recovery Assist 3-Bureau Checks Mobile App Credit Monitors Dark Web Alerts Best For
1. Life Lock 9.5/10 $9.99-$25.99 A- Yes No $1 million Yes Yes No Yes Yes Reliability
2. IdentityForce 9.3/10 $9.99-$18.99 A+ Yes Yes $1 million Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Service
3. Identity Guard 9.2/10 $6.67-$16.67 A+ Yes Yes $1 million Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Overall coverage
4. Complete ID 8.9/10 $8.99-$13.99 A+ Yes Yes $1 million Yes Yes No Yes Yes Children
5. Privacy Guard 8.8/10 $9.99-$24.99 A+ Yes Yes $1 million Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Basics
6. Zander Insurance 8.7/10 $6.75-$12.90 A+ Yes Yes $1 million Yes Yes No No Yes Affordability
7. ID Shield 8.6/10 $12.95-$32.95 A+ No Yes $1 million Yes Yes No Yes Yes Family
8. IDnotify 8.3/10 $9.99-$25.99 A+ Yes Yes $1 million Yes Yes No Yes Yes First year
9. AllClear ID 8.2/10 $10-$30 A+ Yes No $1 million Yes Yes No Yes Yes Employers
10. ID Watchdog 8.2/10 $14.95-$19.95 A+ Yes No $1 million Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Resolution

What Is Identity Theft Protection & How Does it Work?

Identity theft protection service refers to a few different tactics that keep consumers safe against criminals who want to pass as another person. There are methods for protecting Social Security numbers, insurance and credit info, and much more. Below, see a closer look at the specifics to these processes.

Professional vs. DIY Protection

While this review covers the expert identity theft protection providers, anyone can take action on their own to preserve their good standing with the credit bureaus. It turns out that a combination of pro service and self-monitoring can go a long way.

Professional

Expert identity theft protection service utilizes the latest technology and security measures to keep track of an individual’s records and financial data. A variety of plans appeal to different demographics, from children to parents to seniors and more.

Pros:

  • Covers all age groups
  • Experts monitor suspicious changes in data
  • Monthly or annual pricing
  • Recovery assistance is available

Cons:

  • It's not 100% guaranteed
  • Pricing varies widely

DIY

Some people choose the self-monitoring road, either because they can’t afford professionals or they don’t trust others with their info. Do-it-yourself tactics include checking in with the credit bureaus to track any changes and to review bank statements and summaries.

Pros:

  • Ability to grant permission to other authorities
  • Free or low-cost
  • Power is in the consumer's hands
  • Variety of resources out there

Cons:

  • Easy to miss warning signs
  • Individuals need to keep up with it themselves

How Consumers Can Protect Themselves Every Day

Whichever identity theft protection service a person chooses, they can always take action against danger themselves. Check out the following steps to understand how individuals can keep themselves safe every day. For instance, some of the best medical alert systems will automatically search for suspicious activity.

1. Take Advantage of Free Account Management From Banks and Credit Card Companies

It makes sense to have the experts take care of surveillance and monitoring. After all, it’s one less thing to worry about. Everyone with a bank account should check to see if their financial institution offers this assistance.

2. Decline Any Offers for Pre-Approval or Screening Processes

This is one of the telltale signs that the person or company is trying to scam others. Most people have gotten emails or letters stating that they’re pre-approved for a new credit card or account. Simply throw it away to avoid giving information to thieves.

3. Always Review Medical Documents, History, and Insurance Policies

It’s easy to assume that the info on the paper is correct, but without a good look, there’s always going to be doubted. Be sure to check the personal details that the doctor or insurance company has on hand for any errors.

4. Report Identity Theft Immediately and Go to Identitytheft.Gov for Free Recovery Assistance

Some people doubt themselves and waste valuable time putting the blame on something they did. There’s no time for that when identification is stolen. The first step is to report the crime immediately and put a freeze on accounts.

5. Contact the Three Major Credit Bureaus - Equifax, Experian & Transunion - to Freeze Your Credit

Getting in touch with all three of these bureaus will ensure that they all have the same details and can stop anyone from accessing the info. It is free to request a freeze, so don’t hesitate to call or email them.

What Protection Companies Do

Before choosing a provider, individuals should know what identity theft protection services do. It turns out that expert help might not be necessary, but it depends on the person.

1. Credit & File Monitoring: Spots Suspicious Activity

For those who don’t know how to keep track of their financial documents (or don’t want to), these services can do it for them. Experts will look over credit data and files to spot any odd changes and then notify the client immediately.

2. Get A Warning Email or Text: Faster Action & Recovery

The minute that the provider sees something fishy going on, they will send a notification, either through email, text, or phone call. This eliminates the need for people to self-check, which is why these services are so convenient.

3. Assistance With Recovery of Data & Information: A Step-by-Step Action Plan

In case something bad does happen, these providers are there to offer a way to recover the data and any financial losses, if possible. Lots of companies offer policies up to $1 million, so there’s a good chance much of the damage can be undone.

Identity Theft Examples

The bad news is that ID thieves have multiple ways of ruining lives. The good news is that many identity theft protection services are aware of these tactics and safeguard against them. It is not enough to check a credit report every month. Rather, companies and their clients need to be aware of the different ways that their identification can be at risk.

  • Criminal: a felon uses someone else’s ID, blaming them for the crime
  • Financial: a hacker gets into someone’s bank account to make large purchases
  • Medical: a person utilizes somebody else’s insurance card to access prescription drugs
  • Social Security: thieves can use a person’s SSN or card to open fraudulent lines of credit

Features of the Best Theft Protection Services

While different identity theft protection companies can focus on specific demographics or services, they share many of the same features. For instance, most of them offer plans and policies for a variety of ages, from kids to the elderly. Plus, the monitoring methods can be as basic or advanced as the customer wants.

Other common tools include regular reports on credit usage and scores, changes in the cardholder’s address, as well as routine checks for their name across the Dark Web. Furthermore, clients can take advantage of recovery policies that cover damages and stolen funds, often up to $1 million.

Identity Theft Protection For…

As mentioned above, there are identity theft protection services for just about every demographic, from the young to the old and rural and urban clients. Not only that, but family plans and even policies specifically for couples or military service members are also available.

Family-Focused Plans

A family plan can be great for parents who want to ensure that everyone is safe from hackers and thieves. There are many businesses out there that offer insurance coverage for families, often at discounted rates. Why is this so important? These days, every member of the family is perusing the Internet all day, every day. That means more opportunities for hackers to get their hands on sensitive information.

Child Protection Policies

It’s easy for adults to feel like their details and information is vulnerable, but they are less likely to feel that way about their kids. It turns out that ID thieves can attack a child’s info just as well. Why do they do this? They can use that stolen data to open a fraudulent account, access bank statements and medical records, apply for a loan, or receive government benefits. Never take a kid’s Social Security number for granted.

Recovery Insurance for Spouses

Every single person on the planet has an SSN, and that means that they are prone to having their identity stolen. Just as someone may want to protect their kids, they may also want to ensure the safety of their spouse. It makes sense to sign up for alerts on everyone’s credit files. Moreover, a spouse could become a victim of their own partner’s greed. It sounds like something out of a bad movie, but a husband could steal the identity of his wife and vice versa.

  • A safety precaution against ill-willed partners
  • Helps in cases of divorce

Assistance for the Elderly

Unfortunately, the threat of identity theft is something that people don’t outgrow, even as they become seniors. Protecting elderly individuals can be a bit more difficult since they probably don’t have the same Internet etiquette and technological knowledge as younger folks. That makes it all the more crucial to place alerts and monitors on their credit usage. Just because they’re older, that doesn’t mean senior citizens aren’t prone to their SSNs being used on the black market or for taking out fake loans.

  • It’s easy to fool seniors into handing over money
  • Scammers are adept at pretending to be grandkids

Coverage for Commercial Clients

Small business owners are another demographic that needs to worry about shielding themselves from hackers and ID thieves. Since entrepreneurs are so busy, they can’t always opt for the self-monitoring route. That makes a professional service all the more crucial. These providers can keep up with the company’s credit reports and files to spot any anomalies or atypical activity. It could be the difference between healthy biz and losing out on hundreds of thousands of dollars.

  • Added protection for self-employed people
  • Helpful for those who can’t access policy via an employer

Deals for Active Military & Veterans

Those who serve (or have served) in the Armed Forces are making the ultimate sacrifice and putting their lives on the line. It’s sad to think that they would be the victims of identity theft, and yet it’s something that protection companies see every day. Hackers can steal their Social Security number and use it to get benefits and services from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Alternatively, there are instances in which there may be a data breach within the military itself, causing tons of data and secured information to be leaked.

  • Particularly useful for older vets
  • Secures benefits that veterans are entitled to

Policies for After Death

Some people might not realize that the deceased can still be victims of identity theft. While most of the time, this occurs as a mistake, it still makes it possible for thieves to utilize a dead person’s Social Security number for their gain. This is referred to as ghosting and can go on for months before credit bureaus and agencies become keen to the theft. Try contacting Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion upon the passing of a loved one.

  • Hard to catch early on
  • This is an under-the-radar form of thievery

How to Choose the Best

It’s no secret that there are dozens of identity theft protection services to choose from. They all seem the same on the surface, but there are a few things that separate the good from the great.

Credit Checks With All 3 Bureaus

Some providers only check with one credit bureau, and it may not even be one of the big three: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. It's critical to get monitored by each of them because something might slip through the cracks. Checking in with multiple agencies ensures more solid coverage and security measures.

Online Black Market Surveillance

Fortunately, most companies these days are privy to offline and online threats. This is imperative since scammers are coming up with craftier ways to steal identities and open fraudulent accounts. Some modern perks that stand out include secure mobile keyboards, safe browsing extensions, social media checks, and protection apps for clients.

Multi-Channel Notifications

Speaking of mobile applications, agencies these days need to meet clients where they're at, and that's usually online. Gone are the days when consumers were constantly checking their email. Today, people want fast reports through push notifications or text messages. Also, customer service agents must be available via multiple channels.

Recovery & Restoration Support

Part of quality identity protection services involves assisting individuals when their financial reputation is compromised. While this is a last resort, it still matters and can be the difference between ruined credit and recovery. Look for a company that helps with reimbursement of stolen funds as well as a proactive response to hard inquiries and high-risk transactions.

Insurance Policies

The majority of the examples in this review offer identity theft insurance policies, often up to $1 million. This helps clients who become victims of a stolen ID, fraudulent accounts in their name, and more. The plans assist with things like attorney fees, re-applying for loans, notarizing official documents, and much more.

Client Feedback

It is wise to read reviews before committing to a provider. Moreover, look for previous or current clients who are in the same shoes, as this gives a better idea of what the experience will be like. For instance, a family doesn't want to read the feedback on an individual plan since it doesn't apply to them.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Provides the Best Protection Against Identity Theft?

    The primary things to look for include ample coverage and security on multiple accounts. This means protection for credit scores and financial applications, Social Security numbers, bank statements and accounts, and public records. It’s also a good idea to find a supplier who offers restoration and resolution services in case a person’s identity is compromised or stolen. This would entail freezing credit, correcting reports, and reimbursing clients for lost funds.

  • What is Identity Theft Protection Insurance?

    This insurance is legal security against scammers or frauds who attempt to use another person’s name. These criminals might utilize that stolen ID to take out a loan, make a payment, steal employee benefits, and much more. With an insured policy, consumers have the added protection and support of a team of agents.

  • What is the Best Identity Protection Product?

    This depends on what the particular person needs. Families are going to have different requirements compared to young adults or senior citizens applying for an individual plan. Even so, some ideas on what to look for include online and offline monitoring of financial accounts, SSN usage tracking, Dark Web surveillance, and inclusion of children on the policy, if necessary.

  • How Can I Protect My Identity For Free?

    For one thing, never hold a Social Security card out in the open. Most people don’t even need to have it in their wallet and can instead keep it safe at home. Also, be stingy with personal information like bank details. When disposing of physical mail, shred it to avoid it being stolen out of the trash by savvy criminals. Regularly check credit scores and bank statements, so it’s easier to spot suspicious activity.

  • How Can I Find Out If Someone is Using My Identity?

    Start by requesting regular credit reports. Each bureau can grant one free report to individuals per year. Review it and stay aware of any loan application denials or hard inquiries, as these may mean that someone else is utilizing the ID. Study monthly bank statements and credit card accounts to see every purchase and where it took place. Anything that looks unfamiliar warrants a phone call to the bureau or financial institution.

  • What Are the 5 Most Common Types of Identity Theft?

    The first one is criminal ID theft, in which an individual uses someone else’s name upon getting arrested. The police will have the wrong identity, and that poor soul will have a strike against their permanent record. The second is a person’s driver’s license, which highlights info like name, address, and birth date.

    Financial ID entails somebody accessing another person’s identity to do something like make payments or apply for a mortgage. Medical ID occurs when someone uses a person’s prescription drug or HMO card to receive benefits or coverage. Social Security is the fifth and worst form of theft because criminals can use an SSN to carry out large and detrimental monetary actions, like taking out a loan.

Stable Solutions to Real Threats

Experiencing this problem can halt one’s credit or ruin it all together, making the next few years of their life a huge struggle. Consider this review and take the time to invest in some self-security. Even the most careful individuals can find themselves in this situation, so never underestimate the power of a stable ID theft insurance policy.


Editorial Staff

Jerry Carter is an experienced writer and has a passion for content development for varied projects. Jerry had been studying law at university when he realized that only writing could satisfy his adventurist spirit and his desire for knowledge. As a person with many unusual hobbies, he is also interested in security and modern technology.


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