ID Patrol Review

How is ID Patrol any different than standard credit monitoring?
A comprehensive, credit monitoring-based identity protection product like Equifax ID Patrol does even more to help consumers protect and minimize the damage that can be caused by identity theft. Equifax ID Patrol combines identity protection features like WebDetect–an innovative feature that constantly scans suspected Internet trading sites and provides alerts to consumers if their personal information (i.e. Social Security number or major debit/credit card numbers) is found, 24/7 Identity Theft Resolution Specialists, and the ability to control who has access to your Equifax credit file with three-bureau credit monitoring and alerts to key changes in a credit file–all in one product.

What features does Equifax ID Patrol offer?
Equifax ID Patrol packs several identity protection features into one simple tool, including the following:

• Identity Theft Resolution Specialist - a trained specialist available 24/7 to help consumers understand the process of notifying the proper authorities, banks and other financial institutions in the event that their identity is stolen.
• Equifax WebDetect - WebDetect puts technology to work to protect your information. It searches the Web for your personal information, including your Social Security Number and up to 10 credit card account numbers, and sends you an alert email if your personal information appears online.
• Equifax Credit Report Control - With Credit Report control you can lock and unlock your Equifax credit report online or by phone, temporarily unlock your credit report the companies of your choosing, and be notified by email if changes are made to the lock status of your Equifax credit report.

Credit Monitoring
ID Patrol also monitors a consumer’s credit file with all three nationwide credit reporting agencies for key changes — such as when someone opens credit in the consumer’s name—and sends them e-mail alerts within 24 hours of those key change

Why do consumers need an identity theft protection product?
Consumers should not wait until they have become a victim to take steps to protect themselves. Equifax ID Patrol is designed to alert consumers to potential instances of fraud sooner and to help prevent identity thieves from obtaining credit in their name. A proactive approach is the best way for consumers to protect themselves and minimize damage to their credit in the event that theft does occur.