Brian Krebs Five Bureau Security Freeze

Follow the five bureau security freeze advocated by cybersecurity journalist Brian Krebs to block identity theft across major and secondary credit reporting agencies.

7 time blocks, 35 minutes in total.

Time blocks

Gather Identity Information: 5 min
Assemble Social Security number, address history, and identity docs
Freeze Equifax Credit File: 5 min
Submit online freeze request through the Equifax portal
Freeze Experian Credit File: 5 min
Submit online freeze request through the Experian portal
Freeze TransUnion Credit File: 5 min
Submit online freeze request through the TransUnion portal
Freeze Innovis Credit File: 5 min
Complete freeze application on the Innovis security portal
Freeze ChexSystems File: 5 min
Request a freeze on ChexSystems to block new bank accounts
Store Security PINs and Records: 5 min
Save confirmation codes and PINs in a secure manager

About this routine

Cybersecurity reporter Brian Krebs has long advocated for freezing credit files as the single most effective defense against identity theft. While most advice focuses solely on the Big Three credit bureaus, Krebs emphasizes that criminals often exploit lesser known databases. Following a comprehensive five bureau security freeze ensures that unauthorized loans, credit cards, and bank accounts cannot be opened in your name.

This process covers Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion alongside Innovis and ChexSystems. Innovis serves as a primary secondary credit agency, while ChexSystems tracks banking history and prevents bad actors from opening fraudulent checking or savings accounts. Under federal law, placing and lifting credit freezes at these bureaus is completely free for all consumers.

By working through each agency sequentially and storing your confirmation credentials safely, you close the primary security loopholes used by identity thieves. You can keep track of each step using an interactive morning routine timer to stay focused during setup.

Why this routine works

Blocks unauthorized credit card and loan applications
Prevents fraudulent checking and savings account openings
Covers secondary reporting agencies often missed by standard advice
Creates a secure central vault of PINs and confirmation codes

FAQ

Why does Brian Krebs recommend freezing five credit bureaus instead of three?

Identity thieves often attempt to open fraudulent bank accounts or alternative credit lines using secondary bureaus like ChexSystems and Innovis when the major three are locked.

Does freezing credit files cost money?

No. Federal legislation makes placing, temporarily lifting, and removing security freezes free of charge at all credit reporting agencies.

How long does it take to freeze all five security bureaus?

The entire process takes approximately 35 minutes when you have your personal identification details ready.