In one sentence: A fraud alert is a US notice on your credit report that tells lenders to check it is really you before they open a new credit account.
Why it matters: In the US, an initial fraud alert is free and lasts one year. You ask one credit bureau, and it tells the other two. Unlike a freeze, a fraud alert does not stop businesses from seeing your credit report. In the UK, Cifas Protective Registration (paid) and a free password Notice of Correction ask lenders to check it is you. Neither blocks credit.
One thing to do: If you think you may be affected by identity theft in the US, ask one credit bureau for a free initial fraud alert.
Related terms: credit freeze, credit report, identity theft
Checked: 25 Oct 2026. Rules and prices change. If yours looks different, check the organization's own page.
