What does it mean when TransUnion freezes an account?

A TransUnion customer can initiate a credit freeze, also called a security freeze, to keep everyone from accessing his credit report, including lenders. This means that a thief cannot open accounts in the customer's name. A security freeze can even be placed on a child's name to prevent identity theft, according to TransUnion.

Those who have already become a victim of identity theft may want to consider using a credit freeze, suggests TransUnion. Customers who won't be applying for credit in the near future may want to consider a freeze too. This freeze can be lifted temporarily or permanently at any time. There may be a small fee to add or lift a credit freeze.