Credit monitoring services alert individuals to changes to their credit report instantly- either via email, text message on cell phones or by phone calls. Many people use credit monitoring services to help them keep an eye on their credit histories and to increase their ability to recognize a fraudulent activity.
The US Federal Trade Commission estimates that it takes about a year before a consumer notices that they have been victims of identity theft. If you are using a credit monitoring service, you would have noticed the activity much faster than if you were only obtaining your credit reports annually. With over 10 million Americans falling victim to identity theft crimes annually, its no wonder we are willing to pay for services like credit monitoring.
Most credit monitoring services charge a monthly fee between $10 and $15, with the price dependent upon the level of monitoring you receive.
Information Provided by Credit Monitoring Services
Each credit monitoring service offers information for a fee; although the exact information provided and the price you pay for it may differ slightly between companies.
Most credit monitoring services...