As an update to our September 24th post entitled Free Credit Freezes and Year-Long Fraud Alerts Now Available, please note that Equifax and TransUnion have abandoned the use of PINS in connection with the online unfreezing of frozen credit files. However, if you are seeking to unfreeze your credit file via phone, a PIN is still required.
When unfreezing online via Equifax, consumers must now create a “my Equifax” account. Account activation is protected by extra security measures, such as a one time code to your mobile phone. Consumers without a mobile phone will have to answer additional security questions. TransUnion already requires consumers to have an account with their name, password and PIN. Using these credentials online, consumers will be able to lift a freeze. Experian will continue to require a PIN in connection with the lifting of freezes.
For additional information, please see: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/09/28/your-money/frozen-credit-files-tips-unfreezing.html