Identity Theft Protection Service Ratings

1. IdentityIQ

  • Overall Score: 7.3
  • User Reviews: 349
  • Features:
    • Credit Reports and Scores: Equifax, Experian, Transunion
    • $1 Million ID Theft Insurance and Family Protection
    • Dark Web Monitoring

2. IDShield

  • Overall Score: 6.9
  • User Reviews: 242
  • Features:
    • SSN, Bank, and Credit Card Activity Alerts
    • Credit Monitoring: Equifax, Experian, Transunion
    • In Business Since 2001

3. IDX

  • Overall Score: 6.7
  • User Reviews: 189
  • Features:
    • $9.95–$39.95 per Month
    • $1 Million Recovery Insurance
    • Credit Monitoring from Experian, Equifax, and Transunion

4. Capital One ID Protection

  • Overall Score: 6.6
  • User Reviews: 48
  • Features:
    • Undisclosed Pricing
    • Undisclosed Recovery Insurance
    • Credit Monitoring from One Bureau

5. Visa ID Protection

  • Overall Score: 6.5
  • User Reviews: 11
  • Features:
    • Free with Membership
    • Undisclosed Recovery Insurance
    • No Credit Monitoring

6. Complete ID

  • Overall Score: 6.4
  • User Reviews: 599
  • Features:
    • For Costco Members Only
    • U.S.-Based Identity Restoration
    • $8.99–$17.98 per Month

7. USAA ID Protection

  • Overall Score: 6.3
  • User Reviews: 13
  • Features:
    • $7.95–$12.95 per Month
    • Undisclosed Recovery Insurance
    • Credit Monitoring from All Three Bureaus

8. Equifax

  • Overall Score: 6.1
  • User Reviews: 65
  • Features:
    • Free Lock & Alert Service
    • Credit Monitoring from All Three Major Bureaus
    • Limited Recovery Services

9. AAA ID Protection

  • Overall Score: 5.6
  • User Reviews: 34
  • Features:
    • $0–$15.95 per Month
    • $1 Million Recovery Insurance
    • Credit Monitoring from All Three Major Bureaus

10. ID Watchdog

  • Overall Score: 5.3
  • User Reviews: 25
  • Features:
    • $14.95–$19.95 per Month
    • $1 Million Recovery Insurance
    • Credit Monitoring: Equifax, Experian, Transunion

Important Things to Know Before Choosing an Identity Theft Company

Identity theft has become an increasingly problematic issue in recent years. As the world expands its digital footprint, identity thieves are exploiting countless channels to gain access to and sell sensitive personal information. Identity theft is regarded as a serious crime because of its devastating effects.

Identity theft occurs when you least expect it and often result in major damage to your bank account, your credit score, other finances, medical history, and even taxes. Fortunately, many companies provide identity protection services to help you shield yourself from thieves and prevent identity theft.

Types of identity theft

There are several types of identity theft that companies can help you avoid. Some of the most common types include:

  • Criminal Identity Theft—Using another person's identity for legal violations.
  • Medical Identity Theft—Stealing identity for healthcare services.
  • Financial Identity Theft—Using another's financial information to accumulate debt.
  • Synthetic Identity Theft—Creating a fake identity.
  • Child Identity Theft—Using a child’s identity to acquire benefits.
  • Social Security Identity Theft—Stealing SSNs for fraud.
  • Driver's License Identity Theft—Using someone else's driver’s license.
  • Tax Identity Theft—Filing taxes with stolen information.

Services

Top identity theft protection companies provide services such as:

  • Credit monitoring
  • Data breach protection
  • Fraud alerts
  • Identity theft insurance
  • Recovery services

Pricing

Prices for identity protection services can vary greatly. Understanding what you need will help you narrow your options effectively.

Identity recovery

Companies usually provide identity recovery services that can assist those who have become victims of identity theft. Recovery options are essential for restoring your identity after a theft.

Protective software

Some companies also offer protective software such as antivirus services. This can be a beneficial feature for users who need robust protection for their digital devices.

Identity Theft Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need identity theft protection?

Identity theft protection can significantly lower the risk of being affected by identity theft. Even though complete safety cannot be guaranteed, having a service can save you significant stress and potential financial loss.

How do I protect my identity?

To safeguard your identity, utilize secure passwords, store essential documents securely, and monitor your accounts regularly. Investing in protective software can also enhance your security.

What types of identity protection services can I get?

Identity protection services vary, but most companies provide multiple monitoring options, insurance, and recovery services.

How do I report possible identity theft?

You can report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission via their website or your local law enforcement agency. Documentation of the theft will aid in the recovery process.