Identity theft is a prevalent issue in the US, with over 1 million cases reported in 2023 alone. Identity theft can lead to fraud and financial loss, as thieves can access personal information such as Social Security numbers and commit crimes in the victim’s name. To protect against identity theft, it is recommended to use an identity theft protection service, with Aura being one of the best options available.
Aura is a comprehensive identity theft protection service that offers dark web monitoring, Social Security number monitoring, and identity theft insurance of up to $1 million per adult. Aura’s plans are affordable and come with additional features like a VPN, email aliases, and antivirus protection. The service also includes credit bureau monitoring, which is typically only offered in higher-priced tiers by other providers.
LifeLock by Norton is another popular identity theft protection service that offers strong monitoring features, including dark web monitoring, data breach notifications, and Social Security number alerts. With plans ranging from $12 to $35 per month, LifeLock also provides identity theft insurance and credit monitoring. Despite some past scandals, LifeLock remains a reliable option for those seeking comprehensive protection.
IdentityForce, owned by TransUnion, offers a good balance between features and affordability, making it a great choice for families. The service provides identity and credit monitoring, a personal identity safety score, and up to $2 million in identity theft insurance. IdentityForce also includes investment account alerts, social media monitoring, and a VPN for mobile devices.
For those looking for a budget-friendly option, Zander provides basic identity theft protection services, including Social Security number monitoring, dark web monitoring, and identity theft insurance. Zander offers credit and transaction monitoring in their Elite Bundle plan, making it a good choice for those seeking additional protection without breaking the bank.
Identity Guard is known for its family-friendly plans, offering coverage for five adults and unlimited children at an affordable price. The service provides dark web monitoring, credit protection, and social media monitoring, making it a good option for families looking to protect their identities. IDShield stands out for its restoration services, offering up to $3 million in identity theft insurance and access to licensed private investigators in case of identity theft.
Experian IdentityWorks offers a free option with basic identity theft protection features, including dark web monitoring and credit report alerts. Paid plans include credit monitoring, Social Security number tracing, and up to $1 million in identity theft insurance. Overall, choosing an identity theft protection service depends on individual needs, with factors like price, features, and level of coverage being taken into consideration.
