There are many reasons you may want to put a freeze on your credit. You might have had your identity compromised, or received a letter that a data breach has occurred with a organization you do business with. Or you may simply not need to use your credit in the near future.

To place a credit freeze, you must contact each of the three credit bureaus separately. This can be done online, or over the phone.

Remember: Placing, lifting, or removing a credit freeze is free. If anyone is attempting to charge you for these services, you are dealing with a scam.

Equifax: 1-888-298-0045 or online.

Experian: 1-888-397-3742 or online.

TransUnion: 1-800-916-8800 or online.

While in place, most lenders will not be able to access your credit file to open new accounts. Current creditors will still continue to have access to your report for account maintenance. To apply for new credit, you can temporarily lift the freeze online or over the phone. Your credit score will not be affected.

For more information, visit http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/credit-freezes-and-fraud-alerts