Article
How to Prevent Information Theft in 2026 - Best Protection Services
Learn how to prevent information theft with top-rated fraud protection services. Compare the best identity monitoring tools to keep your personal data safe.
Information theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in America, with criminals constantly finding new ways to access personal data. From phishing scams to data breaches, your Social Security number, financial accounts, and personal information are constantly at risk.
The best defense combines proactive prevention with robust monitoring and recovery services. Here are the top fraud protection services to prevent information theft in 2026.
Quick Comparison
| Service | Best For | From/Month | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Aura | Best Overall Protection | $12.00 | ★4.9/5 |
| 2. LifeLock | Best Brand Recognition | $11.99 | ★4.8/5 |
| 3. Identity Guard | Best AI Technology | $8.99 | ★4.7/5 |
| 4. Experian IdentityWorks | Best Credit Bureau Service | $24.99 | ★4.6/5 |
| 5. IDShield | Best Recovery Service | $14.95 | ★4.5/5 |
Fraud Protection Services in Detail
Aura
Aura provides the most comprehensive fraud prevention available, combining identity monitoring, credit surveillance, and digital security tools. Their proactive data broker removal helps prevent information theft before it happens.
Pros
- ✓All-in-one fraud prevention platform
- ✓Removes data from 140+ data brokers
- ✓Real-time fraud alerts across all channels
- ✓Up to $5M family insurance coverage
- ✓14-day free trial available
Cons
- ✗Premium pricing for full features
- ✗Renewal rates higher than first year
- ✗May have more features than some need
LifeLock
LifeLock is the most recognized name in fraud prevention with decades of experience. Their integration with Norton provides comprehensive digital protection, though pricing is premium compared to newer competitors.
Pros
- ✓Industry leader since 2005
- ✓Norton integration for device protection
- ✓Up to $1M stolen funds reimbursement
- ✓Extensive fraud detection network
- ✓24/7 U.S.-based support
Cons
- ✗Higher pricing than competitors
- ✗Prices increase after first year
- ✗Basic plans have limited monitoring
Identity Guard
Identity Guard leverages IBM Watson AI for advanced fraud detection that can predict threats before they occur. Their technology-forward approach and competitive pricing make them a strong choice for information theft prevention.
Pros
- ✓IBM Watson AI-powered detection
- ✓Predictive fraud alerts
- ✓Excellent family plan value
- ✓$1 million insurance included
- ✓Lower starting price
Cons
- ✗No VPN or antivirus included
- ✗Value tier lacks credit monitoring
- ✗Fewer digital security tools
Experian IdentityWorks
Experian IdentityWorks offers unique advantages as a credit bureau's own fraud prevention service. The direct access to Experian data and one-click credit lock provide fast response to potential information theft.
Pros
- ✓Direct from major credit bureau
- ✓One-click Experian credit lock
- ✓FICO score simulator
- ✓Daily Experian updates
- ✓600,000+ dark web sites monitored
Cons
- ✗Non-Experian bureaus updated less frequently
- ✗Higher monthly cost
- ✗No annual plan discount
IDShield
IDShield excels in fraud recovery with dedicated licensed private investigators assigned to your case. Their $3 million insurance coverage is among the highest available, providing exceptional protection if information theft occurs.
Pros
- ✓Licensed private investigators for recovery
- ✓Up to $3 million insurance coverage
- ✓PrivacyCheck personal data removal
- ✓Reputation management included
- ✓30-day free trial
Cons
- ✗VPN only works on mobile
- ✗No annual billing option
- ✗Limited to 3 devices for digital tools
How to Prevent Information Theft
Proactive Prevention Steps
- Freeze Your Credit: Place security freezes at all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to prevent new accounts from being opened
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Never reuse passwords; use a password manager
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add 2FA to all financial and email accounts
- Monitor Your Accounts Regularly: Check bank and credit card statements weekly
- Shred Sensitive Documents: Destroy mail containing personal information
- Be Cautious Online: Avoid clicking suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments
Signs Your Information May Be Stolen
- Unfamiliar accounts or inquiries on credit reports
- Bills for services you didn’t sign up for
- IRS notices about duplicate tax returns
- Collection calls for unknown debts
- Medical bills for treatments you didn’t receive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is information theft?
Information theft occurs when criminals access and misuse your personal data, including Social Security numbers, bank account information, credit card numbers, and login credentials. This stolen data can be used for financial fraud, medical identity theft, or sold on the dark web.
How can I check if my information has been stolen?
Use identity monitoring services that scan the dark web for your personal information. You can also check your credit reports for unfamiliar accounts, review bank statements for unauthorized transactions, and set up fraud alerts with the credit bureaus.
What should I do if my information is stolen?
Immediately contact your bank and credit card companies, place fraud alerts on your credit reports, file a report with the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov, and contact local law enforcement. Consider freezing your credit and enrolling in an identity protection service for ongoing monitoring and restoration support.
Is fraud protection worth it?
Yes, fraud protection services provide 24/7 monitoring that would be impossible to replicate manually. They also offer insurance coverage and professional restoration assistance that can save hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars if theft occurs. The average identity theft case takes 200+ hours to resolve without professional help.
How do criminals steal personal information?
Criminals use various methods including phishing emails and texts, data breaches at companies that have your information, malware that captures keystrokes, social engineering scams, mail theft, and purchasing stolen data from the dark web.