What is a Fraud Alert and how long does it last?
A Fraud Alert is a flag that the credit reporting agencies put in your file to instruct creditors to take extra precautions when opening accounts or issuing credit, such as additional verification of your identity. This can potentially slow down the credit application process somewhat, but can protect your credit. There are two types of Fraud Alerts: An initial alert lasts for 90 days An extended alert lasts for seven years. In addition, you are automatically removed from marketing lists for “pre-screened” or “pre-approved” credit accounts.
