Deciding between Aura and Experian IdentityWorks for your 2024 identity protection? Given recent security challenges like major data breaches, critical browser vulnerabilities, and new malware threats, protecting your sensitive info has never been more crucial.
Aura and IdentityWorks are standout names in identity protection, offering powerful tools to monitor your credit, catch suspicious activities, and assist with recovery from identity theft. But which one will truly deliver the protection you need? We’ll pit these services against each other, evaluating them on user experience, customer support, pricing, and extra security perks.
Why should you trust our insights? Our team has dived deep into researching and testing these services to provide you with an honest and detailed comparison. We’ve sifted through user feedback, tested support responsiveness, and dissected every feature to ensure you get the most reliable information.
Ready to discover which identity protection service will keep you safest? Let’s get started!
| Website | Aura.com | Experian.com |
| Pricing | $9 – $25/month | $24.99 – $34.99/month |
| Three-bureau credit monitoring | Yes, with all plans | Yes, except with the free plan (Experian only) |
| Identity theft insurance | Up to $5M | Up to $1 million |
| Stolen funds reimbursement | Up to $1M | Up to $1M |
| Extra security features (antivirus, VPN, and password manager) | Yes, with all plans | No |
| 24/7 assistance | Yes | No |
| Money-back guarantee | 60 days | 7 days |
| Best deal | 68% Off Coupon > | N/A |
Highlights from our Aura and Experian IdentityWorks comparison
- Aura offers more comprehensive identity protection features, including extensive family plans, a wider range of digital security tools, and a higher identity theft insurance coverage of up to $5 million for families.
Meanwhile, Experian IdentityWorks excels in credit monitoring services, providing detailed credit alerts and daily access to FICO credit scores, but lacks a money-back guarantee and additional digital security tools.
Aura stands out with its competitive pricing, round-the-clock customer support, and user-friendly interface, making it a particularly attractive option for families looking for solid identity protection compared to IdentityWorks.
Aura vs Experian IdentityWorks: Head-to-head analysis
Aura and Experian IdentityWorks are top picks for keeping your identity safe. They both offer handy features like credit score monitoring, fraud alerts, and identity theft protection. These are critical for staying secure and catching fraud early.
Plus, both services come with US-based fraud resolution specialists ready to help you get your accounts back on track and recover any stolen funds.
Let’s roll up our sleeves and see what sets these services apart.
Aura: A quick overview
Aura, founded in 2014 by Hari Ravichandran after his own credit information was compromised, has become a trusted name in identity protection, with over a million users on board. Their goal is to provide a full suite of cybersecurity tools to keep your personal information safe.
However, Aura goes above and beyond with its identity theft protection features. Each adult on an Aura plan is protected by $1 million in identity theft insurance, while the family plan bumps that coverage up to $5 million. This makes Aura a standout choice for families who want robust protection.
This superb service keeps a close eye on your bank accounts, credit cards, and investment accounts, sending quick alerts if anything suspicious pops up. For families, Aura’s coverage extends to unlimited children and includes handy features like parental controls and device security.
On top of that, Aura’s digital security toolkit is impressive. It includes a password manager, antivirus software, and a VPN to keep your online activities safe. Plus, with three-bureau credit monitoring, you’ll get alerts from all three major credit bureaus if any suspicious activity occurs.
What we like about Aura
3-bureau credit monitoring included in all plans
24/7 customer support and fraud resolution services
Antivirus software included in all plans
No hidden fees
Dark web monitoring to detect compromised information
Fraud call protection to reduce spam and telemarketing calls
Up to $1 million per member in insurance coverage for identity theft-related losses
Plans for individuals, couples, and families
Parental control app
Password manager and VPN included
What we don't like about Aura
Higher cost compared to some other identity theft protection services
No social media monitoring
Let’s take a closer look at IdentityWorks and see how it stands up to Aura.
Experian IdentityWorks: A quick overview
Experian IdentityWorks builds on the trusted experience of Experian, one of the biggest names in credit reporting alongside TransUnion and Equifax. With a global presence and decades of expertise, IdentityWorks offers a solid package for keeping your credit in check and protecting your identity from theft.
If staying on top of your credit is a priority, you’ll appreciate the daily access to FICO credit reports and scores. Premium users get even more frequent updates, while everyone benefits from quarterly credit reports to keep an eye on things. Plus, IdentityWorks offers a free basic plan with one-bureau credit monitoring and some identity theft coverage, perfect for those who want the basics without breaking the bank.
For those looking for more comprehensive protection, the premium plans for individuals and families come loaded with extras. Features like the dark web and social media monitoring provide added peace of mind, helping you stay one step ahead of potential threats.
What we like about IdentityWorks
Discounts for annual payments
Credit monitoring from all three major credit bureaus
A free plan with essential features that lasts indefinitely
7-day trial to test out the service
Mobile apps available for both iOS and Android
Plans tailored for both individuals and families
Identity theft insurance with paid plans
What we don't like about IdentityWorks
The basic plan only includes Experian credit monitoring
Steep pricing compared to some competitors
No live chat and no 24/7 support available
History of data breaches raises privacy concerns
Ready to see how Aura measures up against IdentityWorks? Let’s break down their core features to find the winner.
Aura vs Experian IdentityWorks: Which offers superior core features?
Aura stands out for its comprehensive identity protection and broader digital security features, making it a strong contender in the space. However, Aura often outshines IdentityWorks in some crucial areas.
Credit monitoring capabilities
Aura provides strong credit monitoring with three-bureau coverage in all its plans. You’ll get alerts for any suspicious activity across Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. This means you have a complete view of your credit health. Plus, Aura includes child credit freezes to protect minors from identity theft.
IdentityWorks offers flexible options depending on the plan you choose. Premium plans include three-bureau monitoring, daily credit reports, and FICO scores, giving you regular updates on your credit. The CreditLock feature lets you quickly secure your Experian credit file for extra protection.
For families, Aura shines with its child credit freezes and thorough three-bureau monitoring. While IdentityWorks has solid credit expertise, Aura’s more inclusive features make it a better choice for complete family protection and credit monitoring.
Dark web monitoring
Aura and IdentityWorks track the dark web for you, but they each bring something a little different to the table.
From what we’ve seen, Aura stands out in this area. It includes dark web monitoring in all their plans, offering daily scans and immediate alerts if any of your details – like Social Security numbers (SSNs) or addresses – show up in compromised databases. It’s reassuring to know you’ll get a heads-up quickly if something’s amiss, so you can act right away.
On the other hand, IdentityWorks also does a solid job with dark web monitoring. They scan around 600,000 dark web pages daily and even keep an eye on social media for extra protection. It’s great to see this level of vigilance, but it’s worth noting that their comprehensive dark web monitoring is only available with premium plans.
While Experian’s monitoring is strong, Aura’s inclusion of dark web protection in all its plans sets it apart for consistent coverage.
Identity theft insurance and resolution
While both services offer solid insurance coverage, Aura takes it a step further, offering up to $1 million for individuals and a whopping $5 million for families. This extra coverage can be a real lifesaver if you face identity theft, covering stolen money, legal fees, and even lost wages. And with Aura, you get this insurance with all their plans, not just the premium ones.
On the flip side, IdentityWorks offers $1 million in coverage, but only with their premium plans. While that’s decent protection, we found Aura’s higher limits and broader coverage options to be more impressive.
You’ll get help from US-based fraud specialists with both services. However, Aura’s dedicated case managers offer extra support throughout the recovery process, which can be a lifesaver during identity theft. Yes, IdentityWorks offers solid help with AIG-backed insurance for recovery costs. But, with Aura’s higher coverage limits and 24/7 fraud support, we found their service gave a bit more reassurance.
In short, while both offer great features, Aura’s more comprehensive coverage and always-available support make it the clear winner for all-around protection.
Financial account monitoring
Aura covers a wide range of accounts, from bank and investment accounts to property titles, and sends real-time alerts if something suspicious pops up. We also appreciate the ability to set custom alerts for transactions over a certain amount – it's a great way to stay ahead of any potential issues. Plus, Aura includes this coverage in all its plans, so you’re fully protected without needing to pay extra.
While IdentityWorks handles things well with its Premium plan – watching bank accounts, credit cards, and social media – Aura’s more extensive coverage makes Experian’s offerings seem a bit more focused.
While both are good, Aura’s broad coverage and flexibility made it stand out as the best option for keeping tabs on financial accounts.
Aura vs Experian IdentityWorks: Who’s got the stronger feature lineup?
Aura wins with its broader feature set, offering three-bureau credit monitoring, dark web tracking, and up to $5 million in insurance. It also includes digital security tools like financial monitoring and parental controls, making it more comprehensive than IdentityWorks.
Aura vs Experian IdentityWorks: Which service packs more extra security power?
Aura takes the lead with extra security tools like a VPN, antivirus, and password manager, offering all-around protection. Meanwhile, IdentityWorks sticks to credit monitoring without adding device security, making Aura the more complete choice.
Let’s take a look at each of these features
AI-powered antivirus and VPN protection
Aura steps up your security game by including antivirus and VPN protection in all its plans. The AI-powered antivirus works behind the scenes to block malware in real-time, keeping your devices safe without you having to lift a finger. And with the VPN, your internet traffic is encrypted, so you can browse safely, even on public Wi-Fi.
On the flip side, IdentityWorks skips these features, meaning you’d have to find separate tools for device security, which can be a hassle (and an extra cost).
Aura’s all-in-one approach makes staying safe online a breeze, making it a solid pick for those who want easy, built-in protection.
Password management
Aura’s password manager makes it super easy to keep your accounts secure by creating strong passwords and alerting you if any get compromised in a breach. Plus, it comes with 1 GB of cloud storage for those important documents you want to keep safe. With the app or browser extension, you can grab your login info whenever you need it, and it syncs across all your devices – whether you're on iOS, Android, or your laptop.
Aura even lets you import passwords from other managers or browsers with a simple CSV file, making the switch smooth and adding a nice boost to your security.
Unfortunately, IdentityWorks doesn’t include a password manager, so you’ll have to find another solution, which could mean extra costs and hassle.
Ad and website blocker for browsers
Aura’s ad and site blocker is a great little tool for enhancing your online privacy. Available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, it not only zaps annoying ads but also stops digital trackers from following you around. Plus, it blocks malicious websites, shielding you from phishing scams and other online threats.
Aura also integrates tracking prevention and email masking within its password manager, making it a handy all-in-one solution for privacy. Just remember, this extension doesn’t cover all apps, so you might still want a VPN for complete protection.
AI-powered spam call protection
Phone scams are a constant headache, with fraudsters always coming up with new tricks to mess with your personal info and finances. Luckily, Aura’s tech-savvy tool doesn’t just block spam calls and filter out unwanted texts – it also scans links in messages for phishing scams, sending any sketchy stuff straight to your junk folder.
Social media monitoring
IdentityWorks takes the lead with its social media monitoring feature, which keeps tabs on your online activity to protect your identity and reputation. This proactive approach helps ensure that any posts or comments that could harm you are flagged before they become a problem.
On the flip side, Aura doesn’t currently offer social media monitoring. While it excels in many aspects of identity protection, this missing feature means Aura users might not get the full scope of online security.
Family plans and parental controls
Aura’s family plans are a real winner if you’re looking for robust parental controls. They let you keep tabs on your kids’ online activities, filter out harmful content, and even manage screen time – all things IdentityWorks doesn’t include. With Aura, you can cover up to five adults and unlimited kids, making sure everyone in your family is protected. Plus, if a child’s SSN shows up on the dark web, Aura will give you a heads-up, helping to prevent identity theft.
IdentityWorks also has a family plan, covering up to ten children and one extra adult for $34.99 a month after the trial. This plan includes solid identity theft monitoring, monthly privacy scans, and $1 million in identity theft insurance per adult. However, it doesn’t offer the same level of parental controls or child-focused protections as Aura.
Aura’s family plans come with extra goodies like safe gaming tools and protection for up to 50 devices. They’ve teamed up with experts like Circle Parental Controls and Kidas Safe Gaming to provide top-notch features that keep getting better. So, if you’re after a family plan with comprehensive digital safety and extra parental controls, Aura might just be your go-to choice.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) login
Aura makes logging in safer with two-factor authentication (2FA), adding an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification. This means you'll need something like a text code or an authentication app to access your accounts, making it much harder for unauthorized users to get in. Aura’s clear support for 2FA offers great peace of mind if you're worried about account security.
IdentityWorks also supports 2FA, but it doesn’t highlight this feature as prominently. If you’re keen on robust security measures, Aura’s straightforward approach to 2FA might be more reassuring.
For added security features, does Aura or Experian IdentityWorks come out on top?
Aura stands head and shoulders above IdentityWorks with its all-inclusive digital security arsenal. IdentityWorks may excel in credit monitoring, but Aura’s suite of tools—like VPN, antivirus, and a password manager – offers a more robust shield against online threats.
Simplicity in use: Which is more user-friendly, Aura or Experian IdentityWorks?
Aura is easy to set up and great for families with its simple interface. IdentityWorks has many features, but it can be a bit complicated to use.
Now, let’s see how our competitors measure up when it comes to user-friendliness.
Setup and configuration
Getting started with Aura is incredibly straightforward. After choosing the right plan, users can easily create an account by following a few simple steps. The setup process is intuitive, with clear instructions guiding you through creating your profile and setting up features like Safe Gaming, VPN, and antivirus software.
Likewise, IdentityWorks also offers a simple sign-up process, allowing users to create an account quickly. Right after setup, you’ll get access to important tools like your FICO score and an initial dark web scan. The platform is efficient, but it may feel a bit more complex due to the numerous features available, making it slightly more challenging to navigate compared to Aura’s more streamlined experience.
User interface and apps
Aura nails it with its sleek, user-friendly design on both desktop and mobile. The apps are intuitive, featuring Touch ID and Face ID for secure logins. Setting up alerts, linking accounts, and managing your profile is simple, with real-time notifications and a customizable dashboard to track your credit score and transactions.
On the other hand, IdentityWorks offers a polished web-based dashboard but lacks dedicated desktop apps. Its mobile app for iOS and Android is well-regarded but focuses more on credit management than comprehensive identity protection.
All in all, Aura’s seamless integration across devices makes it the more user-friendly choice.
Canceling your subscription
Aura offers an easy cancellation process. You can log in, navigate to membership settings, and cancel your subscription or switch to a free account online. If you’re on an annual plan, you benefit from a 60-day money-back guarantee. Aura’s 24/7 customer support is available to assist if needed.
IdentityWorks allows you to switch to a free plan online but requires a call to customer service for full cancellation, as this option isn’t available through their mobile app. This can make the process less convenient compared to Aura’s straightforward online cancellation.
In short, Aura provides a more user-friendly cancellation experience with flexible options and accessible support, while IdentityWorks requires more effort due to the need for phone contact.
Is Aura or Experian IdentityWorks more user-friendly?
Aura stands out with its easy setup, intuitive interface, and 24/7 support, making it great for families. Its added tools like VPN and antivirus further simplify identity protection. IdentityWorks, while backed by a major credit bureau, offers a more complex experience and less accessible support. Overall, Aura wins for user-friendliness.
Who provides more helpful customer service: Aura or Experian IdentityWorks?
Aura excels in customer service with its always-on support and diverse contact options, whether you prefer phone, live chat, or email. Whether you need immediate assistance or a quick answer, Aura’s support team is ready 24/7, ensuring help is always within reach. Likewise, Aura’s comprehensive help center is also packed with resources for those who prefer to troubleshoot on their own, enhancing the overall experience.
IdentityWorks, while affiliated with a major credit bureau, doesn’t offer the same level of accessibility. Its customer support operates during limited hours, and the absence of live chat can make it harder to get immediate help when needed. Users have reported frustration when trying to reach a live representative, and support is primarily offered through slower channels like online forms or traditional mail. This makes Experian’s customer service less responsive and more cumbersome, especially in situations where urgent support is needed.
Pricing and plans: Who gives you more value for your money?
hen it comes to getting the most value for your dollar, Aura and IdentityWorks each have their strengths. Let’s dive into what each service offers and see which one delivers the most bang for your buck.
Aura delivers comprehensive protection at competitive prices, with plans ranging from $9 to $25 per month. Here's a closer look at their offerings:
- Individual: Starting at $9 per month (billed annually), this plan includes identity and credit monitoring, antivirus, a VPN, $1 million in identity theft insurance, and 1 GB of secure cloud storage.
- Couple: At $17 per month (with a discount), this plan covers two users, providing $1 million in insurance per person, VPN and antivirus protection, 2 GB of cloud storage, and security for up to 20 devices.
- Family: For $25 per month (with a discount), this plan protects up to five adults and unlimited children. It includes $1 million in insurance per adult, 5 GB of cloud storage, coverage for up to 50 devices, and extensive parental controls.
Aura also offers a unique “Kids” plan focused on parental controls and safe browsing, though it doesn’t include standard identity theft protection.
See the latest Aura prices and deals: https://aura.com/save-50-offers
Money-Back Guarantee: Aura provides a generous 60-day money-back guarantee, giving you ample time to test the service risk-free.
Meanwhile, IdentityWorks offers a range of plans, but they come at a higher price point. Here’s a breakdown:
Basic: Free, offering one-bureau credit monitoring (Experian), basic identity theft monitoring, FICO score access, and alerts for significant credit changes.
Premium: At $24.99 per month, this plan adds three-bureau credit monitoring, monthly privacy scans, and $1 million in identity theft insurance.
Family: Priced at $34.99 per month, it covers two adults and up to 10 children with full premium features for the entire family.
Trial and Guarantee: IdentityWorks offers a 7-day free trial for premium plans but lacks a money-back guarantee, which limits flexibility compared to Aura.
So, Which Service Delivers More for Your Dollar?
In terms of value, Aura takes the lead with its lower prices and extensive features across all plans. With solid identity protection, advanced security tools, and a generous money-back guarantee, Aura stands out as the better choice for those looking to maximize their investment in identity protection.
Pricing and Plans Winner: Aura
Data security and privacy: Does Aura or Experian IdentityWorks offer stronger protection?
When it comes to safeguarding your personal information, both Aura and Experian IdentityWorks offer strong security measures, but there are notable differences in their practices.
With Aura you get:
Encryption and security: Aura uses military-grade encryption for its VPN, ensuring that your data remains secure and private during online activities.
No data selling: Aura adheres to a strict no-data-selling policy, emphasizing user privacy and trust. This commitment helps ensure that your personal information is not exploited for commercial purposes.
Continuous monitoring: Aura employs advanced protocols to monitor for potential data breaches, providing an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.
Third-party partnerships: While Aura shares some information with third parties, its collaborations with reputable companies like Walmart and Bank of America are designed to enhance security without compromising privacy.
On the other hand, IdentityWorks provides:
Encryption and authentication: Experian uses SSL technology for secure communication and requires additional authentication measures, such as the last four digits of your SSN, to access sensitive information.
Security measures: The service includes automatic logouts after inactivity, adding a layer of security. However, it relies on third-party services for some monitoring functions.
Data collection concerns: Experian’s data collection practices, including potential geolocation tracking, may raise privacy concerns for users who are particularly sensitive about their personal data.
Past breaches: Experian has experienced data breaches in the past, which may lead to concerns about data security and privacy.
So, while IdentityWorks offers robust security features, Aura stands out with its military-grade encryption, strict no-data-selling policy, and comprehensive monitoring practices. For users who prioritize stringent data protection and privacy, Aura provides a stronger overall security posture.
Final comparison: Which identity protection service stands out?
Now that we’ve taken a deep dive into Aura and IdentityWorks, let’s see how they each perform:
Core features: Aura – Aura takes the lead with its comprehensive approach. Its plans include a wide range of features, such as real-time alerts, dark web monitoring, and family protection, ensuring you have extensive coverage against identity theft.
Extra security tools: Aura – Aura excels with its advanced security features. From military-grade encryption for its VPN to secure cloud storage, these additional tools enhance your overall protection and provide peace of mind.
Simplicity in use: Aura – Setting up and navigating Aura is a breeze. Its user-friendly interface and intuitive design make it easy to manage your identity protection, whether you’re using a computer or mobile device. IdentityWorks is effective, but Aura’s simplicity gives it the edge.
Customer service: Aura – Aura stands out for its excellent customer service. With 24/7 support via phone, live chat, and email, their team is always ready to assist, ensuring you receive prompt and helpful responses.
Pricing and plans: Aura – Aura’s pricing is straightforward and competitive, with plans starting at $9 per month and no hidden fees. The 60-day money-back guarantee and free trial options make it easy to test the service risk-free. Experian IdentityWorks offers solid plans but lacks the same level of pricing transparency and flexibility.
Data security and privacy: Aura – Though both provide strong security, Aura distinguishes itself with its strict no-data-selling policy and military-grade encryption, offering additional layers of privacy and protection.
Both services are heavyweights in the ring, but Aura’s feature-rich plans, smooth user experience, and upfront pricing make it the clear favorite. If you want thorough protection with no surprises, Aura is the clear winner.
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Aura vs Experian IdentityWorks FAQ
What are the key differences between Aura and Experian IdentityWorks?
Aura offers a more comprehensive suite of features, including three-bureau credit monitoring, dark web tracking, and up to $5 million in identity theft insurance. It also includes digital security tools like a VPN, antivirus, and password manager. IdentityWorks excels in credit monitoring but doesn't offer the same level of digital security tools as Aura.
Which is better, Aura or Experian IdentityWorks?
Aura stands out as the better option due to its extensive features, user-friendly interface, and competitive pricing. It offers more robust identity protection, making it a great choice for families and individuals looking for comprehensive security.
Can I try out Aura and Experian IdentityWorks before committing to a subscription?
Yes, both services offer trial options. Aura provides a generous 60-day money-back guarantee, giving you ample time to test the service risk-free. Meanwhile, IdentityWorks offers a 7-day free trial for its premium plans, allowing you to explore its features before committing.
What are the pricing differences between Aura and Experian IdentityWorks?
Aura's plans range from $9 to $25 per month, offering comprehensive protection at competitive prices. IdentityWorks' premium plans start at $24.99 per month, with a family plan priced at $34.99 per month. Aura's pricing is more straightforward and includes more features across all plans.
Are there any hidden fees with Aura or Experian IdentityWorks?
No, there are no hidden fees with either service. Aura offers transparent pricing with no hidden costs, and IdentityWorks also provides clear pricing details. However, Aura's plans include more features without additional costs, making it a more value-packed option.
This Aura vs Experian IdentityWorks comparison guide was last updated on September 27, 2024.
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