How to put freeze on credit reports -- New Jersey Law Goes Into Effect

A New Jersey law that took effect Jan. 1 allows residents to prevent anyone from getting access to their credit reports by placing a freeze on them.

That can prevent identity thieves from obtaining a credit card or loan in someone's name, even if they have that person's Social Security number, because the credit card company, bank or other prospective lender cannot check the credit report.

To install a security freeze, consumers must write to each credit agency by certified or overnight mail. They agencies will send instructions, including a PIN code, on how to 'thaw' the reports.

From Newsday.com