 TITLE: What Is the Difference Between a Fraud Alert and a Credit Freeze? CONTENT: The type of fraud alert most often discussed as an alternative to a credit freeze is an extended fraud alert, or fraud victim statement. Intended for victims of credit fraud or identity theft, an extended fraud alert will stay on your credit report for seven years unless you have it removed sooner. When adding one to your credit report, you must provide a copy of a police report or other valid identity theft report submitted to law enforcement.\nAn extended fraud alert attaches a notice to your credit report that indicates you are a fraud victim. It asks any business seeking your credit report to contact you to confirm your identity before granting credit in your name. These could include:\n*   Credit issuers\n*   Landlords\n*   Potential employers\n*   Car insurance companies\n*   Car rental agencies\nAnyone can place a less stringent type of fraud alert known as a temporary fraud alert, or initial security alert, on their credit report at any time and for any reason (no criminal report is required). It notifies businesses requesting your credit report that you are a potential victim of identity theft and asks them to confirm your identity. A temporary fraud alert stays on your credit report for one year unless you cancel it sooner.\nA third type of alert, the active-duty fraud alert, is functionally identical to a temporary fraud alert, but is designed for service members on remote-duty assignments. Proof of military orders must be submitted along with a request for this type of alert. END