Curious about the best identity theft protection in 2024? You’ve come to the right place. In a moment, we're diving into a face-off between Aura and LifeLock, examining their features, pricing, and overall effectiveness to help you find the perfect fit.
With identity theft on the rise, safeguarding your info has never been more crucial. Cybercriminals are getting craftier by the day, but services like Aura and LifeLock are here to offer a shield for your identity and finances. So, how do you choose the right one?
We’re here to break it down for you. Our in-depth comparison will explore the ins and outs of Aura and LifeLock, testing them against real-world scenarios to see how well they protect you from identity theft. Our aim? To give you a thorough, unbiased review so you can make a smart choice.
Why take our word for it? Our team of experts has extensive hands-on experience in cybersecurity and identity protection. We've dedicated countless hours to researching and testing these services to deliver the most accurate information. So, stick with us as we pit Aura and LifeLock against each other to help you find the best solution for your needs.
| Website | Aura.com | LifeLock.Norton.com |
| Pricing | $9 – $25/month | $7.50 – $40.99/month |
| Three-bureau credit monitoring | Yes, with all plans | One bureau with most plans, three bureaus with premium plans only |
| Identity theft insurance | Up to $5M | Up to $3M |
| Stolen funds reimbursement | Up to $1M | From $25,000 to $1M, based on your plan |
| Extra security features (antivirus, VPN, and password manager) | Yes, with all plans | Yes, but with the Norton 360 security suite only |
| 24/7 assistance | Yes | Yes |
| Money-back guarantee | 60 days | 60 days |
| Best deal | 68% Off Coupon > | 52% Off Coupon > |
Highlights from our Aura vs LifeLock comparison
- Aura offers comprehensive identity theft protection with straightforward pricing, fast alert notifications, and a 60-day money-back guarantee, making it user-friendly and budget-conscious.
- LifeLock provides extensive monitoring services but has complex pricing structures, slower alert notifications, and mixed reviews for customer support, especially in response times.
- Aura’s plans include features like antivirus, VPN, and parental controls at no extra cost, while LifeLock requires additional fees for similar services, making Aura a more inclusive option for families.
- In terms of value, Aura comes out on top, especially when you use this 68% off coupon.
Aura vs LifeLock: Head-to-head analysis
When it comes to identity theft protection, Aura and LifeLock are two big names you’ll hear about. Aura stands out with its all-in-one features and easy-to-understand pricing, making it a popular choice for those seeking strong protection without spending too much.
LifeLock, on the other hand, offers wide-ranging monitoring but can be a bit pricey and somewhat complicated when it comes to renewals.
Let’s dive in and see how they stack up against each other.
Aura: A quick overview
Aura was founded in 2014 by Hari Ravichandran, who decided to make the internet safer after his own credit information was compromised. Today, it serves over a million members worldwide, and we can see why. Through its acquisition of IdentityGuard, Aura has expanded its offerings to include tailored plans for individuals, couples, and families, providing extensive cybersecurity tools to combat digital threats.
We found Aura's real-time alerts and advanced security features particularly impressive. It continuously monitors your information and sends prompt fraud alerts, so you're always in the know. The three-bureau credit monitoring helps you keep an eye on your credit reports across Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. And let’s not forget the added security tools like the VPN and antivirus protection, which beef up your online safety.
What we appreciate about Aura is its straightforward pricing and comprehensive features. There are no hidden fees, and you get dark web monitoring, fraud call protection, and up to $1 million in insurance coverage per person for identity theft-related losses. With family plans, this coverage can go up to $5 million, ensuring comprehensive protection for all members.
While Aura might be a bit pricier than some other services and lacks social media monitoring, the peace of mind it offers is well worth it.
What we like about Aura
All-inclusive identity theft protection
Antivirus, password manager, and VPN with all plans
3-bureau credit monitoring across all plans
24/7 customer support and fraud resolution services
No hidden fees
Dark web monitoring for compromised information
Fraud call protection
Up to $1 million per member in identity theft insurance
Plans for individuals, couples, and families
Parental control app
What we don't like about Aura
Higher cost compared to some other services
No social media monitoring
Now, let’s turn our focus to LifeLock.
LifeLock: A quick overview
Launched in 2005, LifeLock has built a strong reputation, especially with its integration into Gen Digital Inc. after shedding its Norton LifeLock identity in 2022. Despite some bumps along the way, including a major merger with Norton 360 and a $12 million FTC fine in 2010, the company has persevered and continues to offer robust protection.
LifeLock’s integration with Norton 360 is particularly beneficial. It adds antivirus protection and a secure VPN to its suite of services, expanding the scope of protection beyond just monitoring credit and personal information. LifeLock has several plans that offer varying levels of coverage, some including legal assistance and compensation for losses after identity theft.
LifeLock’s real-time alerts and advanced security features are top-notch. It keeps a close watch on your information and sends quick fraud alerts to keep you informed. The three-bureau credit monitoring in higher-tier plans helps you track your credit reports across Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
All in all, LifeLock offers solid protection and additional security tools like Norton Secure VPN and antivirus. However, its pricing can be confusing and tends to be higher than other services. Plus, three-bureau monitoring is only available with the pricier plans.
What we like about LifeLock
30-day free trial
24/7, US-based customer support
Affordable entry-level plan
Identity theft insurance up to $3 million
Intuitive interface and mobile app
Discounts for annual payments
Multiple plans with varying levels of coverage
Comprehensive identity protection
Rapid alerts for suspicious activities
Lost wallet protection
What we don't like about LifeLock
3-bureau monitoring is only included in higher-tier plans
- Significant price rise at renewal time
Complicated pricing structure
Expensive compared to other services
Aura vs LifeLock: Which offers superior core features?
Aura and LifeLock aim to safeguard your personal info and finances from identity theft, but they go about it differently. Let’s compare their core features to see which one comes out on top.
Credit monitoring services and scores
Monitoring your credit is crucial, and both Aura and LifeLock offer solid services, though they each have their approach.
From what we’ve seen, Aura’s credit monitoring stands out. Every plan, even the basic one, includes coverage across all three major credit bureaus – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. This means you get a full picture of your credit activity and catch potential issues faster. Aura’s alerts come quicker than many competitors, so you’re more likely to spot and address any suspicious activity early on.
On the flip side, LifeLock’s basic plans monitor just one credit bureau. If you want three-bureau monitoring, you’ll need to upgrade to their “Ultimate Plus” plan. This can slow down fraud detection and might leave you at risk if you’re on a lower-tier plan. Plus, LifeLock’s setup might take a bit longer, potentially delaying those important alerts.
We’ve found that Aura’s all-in-one approach – offering three-bureau monitoring and speedy alerts on every plan – makes it a top choice for anyone serious about tracking their credit. LifeLock’s basic plan might be a good starting point, but if you want the same level of coverage as Aura, be prepared to opt for their higher-tier plans.
Dark web surveillance
We've found that Aura excels at identity monitoring. The alerts are incredibly fast, often within five minutes, and they keep an eye on various items like credit cards, email addresses, and social media accounts. Plus, it offers detailed guidance on what to do if something goes wrong.
LifeLock also performs dark web surveillance, monitoring bank and investment accounts, payday loans, and criminal records. However, its alert system tends to be slower and less detailed compared to Aura. While both services offer alerts for suspicious activities, Aura’s speed is crucial in preventing identity theft.
Aura's comprehensive coverage and faster alert system make it a standout choice for dark web monitoring. LifeLock, though robust, doesn’t match Aura’s speed and thoroughness in alerting users to potential threats.
Financial account monitoring
Aura offers real-time transaction alerts, letting you know immediately if something looks off. This proactive approach helps catch identity theft early by notifying you of unusual spending patterns.
We’ve found that Aura’s coverage is extensive, keeping an eye on your credit cards, bank accounts, investments, and 401(k)s across all plans. No matter which plan you choose, you get top-tier financial security, giving you peace of mind.
LifeLock, on the other hand, starts with basic monitoring in its “Standard” plan, but you need to upgrade to the “Advantage” or “Ultimate Plus” plans for more detailed account monitoring. These higher-tier plans offer wallet protection and alerts for high-risk transactions. However, the extent of monitoring varies with the plan, which might leave some gaps if you’re on a lower-tier plan.
Identity theft insurance and resolution
Through our testing, we’ve determined that both Aura and LifeLock include strong identity theft insurance in their protection offerings. Aura’s insurance covers a broad range of expenses, including legal fees and lost wages, with up to $1 million per adult. The “Couples” plan boosts this to $2 million, and families can secure coverage up to $5 million, ensuring peace of mind for everyone involved.
Aura also offers white-glove service, meaning you get personalized assistance from dedicated resolution agents. These experts guide you through the recovery process, from dealing with credit bureaus to working with legal authorities, ensuring you have a detailed and custom recovery plan.
On the other hand, LifeLock, partnered with Norton, provides coverage options that can go up to $3 million, depending on the plan you choose. Their reimbursement for stolen funds starts at $25,000 and can reach up to $1 million, primarily covering legal and expert fees. We appreciate LifeLock’s financial monitoring feature, which keeps an eye on important transactions in your accounts, like credit, checking, and savings, and even watches over your 401(K) investments. The “Ultimate Plus” plan offers extensive coverage, while lower-tier plans start with a $25,000 limit and go up to $100,000 for mid-tier plans.
Overall, our experience shows that Aura’s robust and user-centric approach to digital security makes it a dependable ally in the fight against identity theft.
Who packs a stronger core feature set, Aura or Lifelock?
Aura comes out on top when comparing core features. It gives you thorough identity theft protection with three-bureau credit monitoring, dark web monitoring, and real-time alerts in all plans, plus $1 million in insurance per person. LifeLock has good protection too but reserves three-bureau monitoring for its more expensive plans. Aura’s all-inclusive features and quick alerts make it a clear winner.
Aura vs LifeLock: How do their extra security tools compare?
Aura and LifeLock provide extra security tools. Aura’s plans include financial fraud protection, VPN, antivirus, and parental controls at no extra cost, while LifeLock charges extra for Norton's antivirus and VPN.
Now, let's explore these tools and their benefits.
Secure VPN service
In our testing, Aura’s VPN feels like a simple yet strong layer of protection for your online presence. It uses AES-256 encryption to safeguard your data, particularly when using public Wi-Fi.
Setting it up couldn’t be easier – log into the Aura app, toggle the “Protect this device” switch, and you’re connected through a US server. It’s quick and simple, but keep in mind it only connects through a US location for now.
LifeLock, paired with Norton 360, offers a VPN that does more than hide your browsing – it also packs in anti-malware tools to keep your devices secure. But here’s the catch – the VPN isn’t part of LifeLock’s basic package. You’ll need to dive into the Norton 360 suite to access it, which means an extra purchase.
So, Aura’s VPN is perfect if you want something simple and effective, while LifeLock offers more features but only if you're willing to pay extra for the full Norton 360 package.
Ad and tracker blocking extension
With Aura, the ad and tracker blocking extension is seamlessly integrated into its security suite. We’ve found it pretty useful for maintaining a private and secure browsing experience.
It works quietly in the background, keeping advertisers and data trackers at bay, which means fewer ads and more peace of mind when you’re online.
LifeLock, in collaboration with Norton 360, also provides an ad and tracker-blocking extension. It’s effective at keeping annoying ads and tracking cookies out of your way, making your browsing safer and less cluttered.
Also, this feature is part of the broader Norton 360 package, so you’ll need to make an extra purchase if you want it included with your LifeLock plan.
In our hands-on testing, Aura’s built-in approach makes it a hassle-free option, while LifeLock’s version is powerful but requires an additional purchase.
Password manager
Managing passwords is easy with both Aura and LifeLock, but there are some differences we should highlight.
With Aura, the password manager is built right into every plan, so you don’t have to worry about any extra costs. We found it handy for creating, storing, and auto-filling strong passwords across all our online accounts. It’s a fine feeling knowing your passwords are secure and easy to access when you need them.
LifeLock, on the other hand, offers its password manager through Norton 360. It’s a solid tool that helps you generate and store complex passwords, lowering the risk of breaches. However, just like with the ad and tracker blocking, you’ll need to pay a bit extra to get this feature as it’s part of the Norton 360 suite.
AI-powered antivirus technology
If you're looking to protect your devices from cyber attacks, both Aura and LifeLock offer standout AI-powered antivirus technology.
Aura’s AI-powered antivirus technology is a standout feature. We’ve seen it in action, and it’s impressive how well it uses machine learning to detect and stop threats in real time. It’s included with all Aura plans, so you get this advanced protection right out of the box, ensuring your devices are guarded against malware, viruses, and other cyber threats without any extra hassle.
LifeLock, through Norton 360, also offers strong antivirus protection powered by AI. It’s great for scanning and removing malicious software, providing a solid defense against cyber threats.
However, it’s important to note that this feature is bundled with Norton 360, so you’ll need to invest in the full Norton 360 package to get this protection along with your LifeLock plan.
Two-factor authentication (2FA)
Setting up 2FA with Aura is hassle-free, as it’s built right into their rock-solid security suite. Once enabled, you’ll use a secondary verification method, like a code sent to your phone or generated by an authenticator app. This adds a valuable extra layer of security, ensuring that only you can access your accounts even if someone else gets hold of your password.
LifeLock also supports 2FA, but it's tied to its Norton 360 integration. To activate it, you'll need to enter your Norton account password and then input a special verification code. This code, which changes each time you sign in, is sent either through a mobile authenticator app or via text or voice message. While this adds strong security to your accounts, it does mean you'll need the full Norton 360 package to use this feature with your LifeLock plan.
Social media monitoring
Aura does not specifically monitor social media accounts. Instead, it focuses on overall online identity protection by tracking personal information and sending real-time alerts for suspicious activities, helping you manage your digital presence.
LifeLock, on the other hand, offers social media monitoring as part of its identity theft protection services.
This feature alerts you to potential threats like account takeovers or privacy breaches. However, it is only available in higher-tier plans or as part of the Norton 360 suite.
Family plans and parental controls
Aura’s family plan is a standout for households, covering up to five adults and unlimited children for $32 per month, billed annually. It includes parental controls like content filtering and in-game communication monitoring. Aura helps filter unsuitable content, manage screen time, and get alerts about cyberbullying or online predators. Plus, you can see and block any apps and sites your kids access, all in one plan.
LifeLock covers up to two adults and five children, but you need a separate Norton 360 plan for parental controls. Managing kids’ activities is possible through mobile apps or by signing into my.Norton.com. While LifeLock safeguards children’s identities and monitors social media for fraud, it lacks the specific parental control features found in Aura.
For added security features, does Aura or LifeLock come out on top?
For extra security tools, Aura bundles financial fraud protection, VPN, antivirus, and parental controls into every plan with no added cost, while LifeLock charges extra for these features, making Aura the more comprehensive and economical option.
Extra security tools winner: Aura
Simplicity in use: Which is more user-friendly, Aura or LifeLock?
Choosing the right identity theft protection service isn’t just about features – ease of use plays a crucial role too. Having an intuitive setup and seamless user experience can make all the difference. Let's dive into how Aura and LifeLock fare in terms of usability.
Setting up the service
Aura makes getting started a breeze. The signup process is streamlined and user-friendly, guiding you through plan selection and basic information entry.
Once you’ve chosen a subscription, you’ll quickly set up Aura’s security features, including VPN, antivirus, and browser extensions. The interface feels intuitive, allowing you to activate and manage your protection effortlessly, which we found convenient.
Meanwhile, LifeLock's setup requires a bit more detail.
We had to provide comprehensive personal and financial information to tailor the monitoring to our needs. After entering our billing details, we gained access to LifeLock’s dashboard. While the initial setup took a bit longer, we eventually accessed a solid range of features for keeping our information safe.
In our view, Aura's streamlined setup process and user-friendly activation make it the easier option for starting your journey with identity protection.
Making use of desktop and mobile apps
Aura’s dashboard and apps are like a breath of fresh air – smooth, user-friendly, and easy to navigate.
We had a blast exploring the mobile app on both iPhone and Android. It’s clean, straightforward, and perfect for managing your accounts and financial activities on the go. The desktop application? Equally impressive! It's a central hub where you can customize your dashboard and get a personalized view of your security setup.
Now, let’s talk about LifeLock.
Their dashboard and mobile apps are also pretty user-friendly. However, some of us noticed a bit of a wait for the credit monitoring features to kick in fully. Plus, LifeLock has two separate apps, which threw a few of us for a loop initially. But once you get the hang of it, the interface is thoughtfully designed and functional.
All in all, Aura’s more intuitive interface and seamless navigation across devices give it a friendly edge in providing a straightforward user experience.
Canceling your subscription
When it comes to ending your subscription, Aura makes the process pretty hassle-free. You can handle the whole process directly through the Aura dashboard. Head to the account settings, click on the subscription tab and follow the steps to cancel. Plus, if you’re on an annual plan, Aura offers a 60-day money-back guarantee, so if the service doesn’t work out for you, you’re covered. Their customer support is also top-notch, available 24/7, and they’re known for being quick and helpful if you need any assistance.
On the flip side, LifeLock’s cancellation process is a bit more involved. You’ll need to get in touch with their customer service, either by phone or online chat. They also offer a 60-day money-back guarantee on annual plans, but from what we’ve seen, the process can be a bit more cumbersome, with longer wait times and extra steps.
Is Aura or LifeLock more user-friendly?
Aura is easier to use than LifeLock, with its simple setup, intuitive dashboard, and smooth apps. LifeLock’s setup is more involved and requires more information, plus its cancellation process is less convenient, needing direct contact with customer service.
Who provides more helpful customer service: Aura or LifeLock?
All Aura plans include full concierge resolution services, unlike LifeLock which offers this support on select plans. Aura’s user-friendly dashboard makes it easy to navigate, and dedicated case managers handle fraud cases with personalized attention. You can reach Aura’s support team via phone, email, or live chat. They’re quick and helpful, assisting with account setup and dark web alerts. You can contact them at +1-833-552-2123, via email at support@aura.com, or chat Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM (EST).
LifeLock offers reliable 24/7 support via phone and live chat, which we appreciate for straightforward issues. However, we noticed that the support staff sometimes seemed more focused on Norton’s antivirus products rather than LifeLock’s identity services, which led to some inconsistent help for more complex problems. LifeLock also provides self-help resources through their member portal and the My Norton app, including guides, FAQs, and tips for those who prefer a DIY approach.
Pricing and plans: Which offers more bang for your buck?
If you're looking for the best bang for your buck with identity theft protection, Aura and LifeLock take different paths.
Aura stands out for its simplicity and transparency in pricing. They offer three plans: “Individual”, “Couple”, and “Family”, each designed to provide extensive protection without hidden fees or confusing upgrades. Here’s a breakdown:
- Individual: Starts at $12 per month, but with special promotions, you can reduce this cost to as low as $6 per month. Aura often provides discounts of up to 68% for new customers here. (The coupon drops the individual rate to $9 per month.)
- Couple: Covers two people at a discounted rate compared to two individual plans.
- Family: Protects up to five adults and unlimited children, offering comprehensive coverage for the entire household.
Annual subscriptions come with a 60-day money-back guarantee, giving you plenty of time to decide if Aura’s services are right for you. Notably, Aura locks in your pricing for the life of your subscription, so you won’t face unexpected price hikes.
Exclusive Aura Coupon:
Get 68% Off Aura subscription plans with the coupon below:
(Coupon is applied automatically; 60 day money-back guarantee.)
Meanwhile, LifeLock’s pricing can be a bit more complex. They offer several tiers:
Standard: Provides basic identity protection for individuals at $7.50 per month with an annual plan ($89.99 per year) or $11.99 per month if billed monthly
- Advantage: Adds more features, including enhanced alerts and additional monitoring, at $14.99 per month with an annual plan ($179.88 per year) or $22.99 per month if billed monthly.
- Ultimate Plus: Offers the most comprehensive protection, including advanced monitoring and higher reimbursement limits, at $19.99 per month with an annual plan ($239.88 per year) or $34.99 per month if billed monthly.
For families, LifeLock offers:
- Three family plans for two adults: The “Standard” Family plan starts at $12.49 per month when billed annually, offering credit monitoring and suspicious activity alerts. The “Advantage” plan, at $23.99 per month, provides enhanced monitoring and higher reimbursement for stolen funds. The “Ultimate Plus” plan, costing $32.99 per month, includes comprehensive protection and extensive support services.
- Three family plans for two adults and up to five children: The “Select” begins at $18.49 per month, covering basic credit monitoring and alerts. The “Advantage”, priced at $29.99 per month, expands monitoring services and reimbursement limits. The “Ultimate”, at $38.99 per month, offers the highest level of protection and support for larger families.
So, which service delivers more for your dollar?
To sum it up, Aura’s pricing is straightforward and stable—what you see is what you get, with no hidden costs. LifeLock’s initial cost is higher and increases with renewal, plus adding extras like Norton 360 and a VPN will cost you more.
Both services have a 60-day money-back guarantee, but Aura also offers a free trial. For simplicity and affordability, Aura takes the lead.
Pricing and plans winner: Aura
Data security and privacy practices: Does Aura or LifeLock offer stronger protection?
Aura stands out with its automatic data broker removal service, unlike LifeLock, which requires user action. Both Aura and LifeLock use two-factor authentication (2FA) and bank-level encryption to protect your personal information. Aura takes it further with 256-bit AES encryption and military-grade cloud storage, ensuring your data is highly secure. Their transparent privacy policies promise not to sell or share your data without permission, and their VPN maintains a strict “no-logs” policy to keep your online activity private.
LifeLock, however, has faced issues in the past, including FTC fines for inadequate data protection and false advertising. Despite this, they continue to monitor your data for misuse and offer restoration services if needed. LifeLock collects various types of data, from membership info to cookie data, and like Aura, as a US-based company, they may be required to share customer data with the government under certain conditions.
Data security and privacy winner: Tie
Conclusion: Which service is right for you?
When weighing up Aura and LifeLock for identity protection, there are a few key points to consider. Here’s a brief rundown of how each service stacks up in the areas we looked at:
- Core features: Aura – Aura excels with three-bureau credit monitoring, dark web monitoring, and real-time alerts included in all plans, providing thorough identity theft protection.
- Extra security tools: Aura – Aura's plans come with financial fraud protection, VPN, antivirus, and parental controls at no additional cost, making it a more comprehensive and economical option.
- Simplicity in use: Aura – Aura offers a streamlined setup process, an intuitive dashboard, and seamless navigation across devices, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
- Customer service: Aura – Aura's full concierge resolution services are included in all plans, providing personalized assistance and quick, helpful support via phone, email, or live chat.
- Pricing and plans: Aura – Aura’s straightforward and stable pricing, with no hidden costs or confusing upgrades, offers excellent value for money and includes a free trial and a 60-day money-back guarantee.
- Data security and privacy: Tie – Both Aura and LifeLock offer strong data security. Aura includes automatic data broker removal and 256-bit AES encryption, while LifeLock provides extensive monitoring and bank-level encryption.
While Aura and LifeLock both offer strong identity protection, Aura has a few perks that set it apart. Even the basic plan provides thorough identity and credit monitoring, plus valuable online safety tools at no extra charge. Aura’s pricing is straightforward with no surprise increases upon renewal, making it a top choice for those looking to get great value.
Ultimately, we think Aura offers the best value, especially with the 68% off coupon.
Aura vs LifeLock FAQ
Is Aura better than LifeLock?
Aura is the better pick for most users, with simple pricing, all-inclusive features, and great customer service. LifeLock, paired with Norton 360, offers solid monitoring and security but comes with a higher price tag and more complexity.
Do Aura and LifeLock sell my personal information?
Aura is the more budget-friendly option with its straightforward pricing. LifeLock’s pricing is often more complicated and higher, especially if you add on services like Norton’s antivirus and VPN.
Which identity theft protection service is cheaper, Aura or LifeLock?
Aura offers more straightforward and transparent pricing, making it a more budget-friendly option. LifeLock's pricing can be more complex and potentially higher, especially when adding extra services like Norton’s antivirus and VPN.
This Aura vs LifeLock comparison guide was last updated on August 17, 2024.
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