In a world where scammers are getting smarter and your data is constantly at risk, identity protection is no longer optional — it’s essential. That’s where IdentityIQ comes in, offering a lineup of tools to help keep your identity safe and sound.
In this hands-on IdentityIQ review, we’ll break down everything from its monitoring tools and credit alerts to how easy it is to use — and whether the price tag is worth it. We’ll also look at how it stacks up in customer support and whether it truly delivers when it comes to peace of mind.
Curious about the key features? Jump to our full breakdown of IdentityIQ’s core protection tools.
Let’s get started and see if this service has what it takes to protect your digital self.
Snapshot summary: Is IdentityIQ right for you?
IdentityIQ delivers a solid lineup of identity theft protection features—think credit monitoring, restoration support, and up to $1 million in insurance coverage. That said, it’s a bit pricier than some competitors and doesn't always offer the smoothest user experience.
The “Secure Max” plan stands out with synthetic ID theft monitoring for kids, application monitoring, and a credit-building perk that reports utility payments to help improve your score over time.
IdentityIQ also teams up with Bitdefender to offer added digital defenses like antivirus protection and a VPN.
- Thinking about signing up? Take a peek at IdentityIQ’s prices and digital security extras before you decide.
IdentityIQ pros and cons
Before you sign up, here’s a quick rundown of where IdentityIQ shines (and where it doesn’t):
+ Pros
$1 million stolen funds reimbursement with all plans
AI-driven approvals and recommendations
Affordable integration with antivirus and VPN
Easy setup with out-of-the-box connectors
Monthly credit scores and reports
User-friendly system and organized interface
Family protection included
Three-bureau credit monitoring available
– Cons
Data sharing with third parties
Higher costs with extra charges for add-ons
No free trial or version is available
- Limited customer support options
IdentityIQ feature summary
From credit alerts to dark web scans — here’s what IdentityIQ has in store:
Credit monitoring – Keeps an eye on your credit reports and sends you alerts if someone tries to do something fishy with your credit, helping to stop identity theft in its tracks.
Dark web monitoring – Checks for your details on hidden online markets, watching for things like Social Security numbers being traded.
Identity protection – Get notified right away if there’s fishy business with your Social Security number (SSN) or if your name pops up in crime reports.
Application monitoring – Monitors new credit applications across various services to prevent unauthorized activities.
Identity theft insurance – Up to $1 million coverage by AIG to assist with recovery costs, including legal fees and lost wages.
Identity restoration – Provides a personal case manager to guide victims through the process of reclaiming their identity.
Family protection – Special monitoring of children's SSNs and insurance coverage, ensuring family-wide security.
IQ alerts – Includes application monitoring, SSN alerts, synthetic ID theft protection, and change of address monitoring, among other services.
File sharing network searches – Scans file-sharing networks for any personal details to alert you of unauthorized sharing.
Lost wallet assistance – This helps you replace important documents and cards if your wallet gets lost.
US-based ID restoration service – Offers dedicated support for identity restoration within the US.
See all IdentityIQ features here >
What is IdentityIQ and how it works?
IdentityIQ might fly under the radar compared to bigger names, but it’s a surprisingly powerful option for identity protection, especially if you're after credit-focused features. The moment you sign up, IdentityIQ gets to work, monitoring your credit reports and online activity, and pinging you with alerts if something shady shows up. If fraud hits, their US-based restoration team is ready to help get your identity back on track.
There are four tiers to choose from — “Secure Basic”, “Secure Plus”, “Secure Pro”, and “Secure Max” — each building on the last. Even the entry-level plan includes credit monitoring and identity theft insurance, while the higher tiers throw in three-bureau credit monitoring, SSN and application alerts, and even Bitdefender antivirus and VPN tools for added digital security. And across all plans, you get up to $1 million in identity theft insurance, giving you a solid safety net if things go sideways.
Company background: Can we trust IdentityIQ?
Founded in 2009, IdentityIQ is a part of the IDIQ family, specializing in identity theft protection and credit monitoring services. Operating out of California, IdentityIQ has become known for its well-rounded protection solutions and educational initiatives on credit and personal identity management. With the rise of sophisticated scams like government benefits fraud and tax-related identity theft – IdentityIQ's vigilant services are more important than ever for early detection and support.
Priding itself on a strong track record of data security, IdentityIQ has successfully avoided any major data breaches, showcasing its dedication to safeguarding user information. While its US base does bring up some privacy questions related to the FVEY intelligence-sharing agreement, IdentityIQ counters these concerns by teaming up with Bitdefender. This partnership not only bolsters its security capabilities with top-notch antivirus protection but also adds an essential layer of defense for its users' digital lives with Bitdefender's VPN service, ensuring secure and private online activities by encrypting internet traffic and masking IP addresses.
On Trustpilot, IdentityIQ has a “Great” rating from 424 reviews, yet 19% of users gave a one-star rating, mainly due to cancellation issues. Customers struggle with being unable to cancel online, and facing long hold times on calls during limited service hours. Complaints also mention unexpected recurring charges and poor interactions with customer service representatives.
Core features: What do you get with IdentityIQ?
Here's a quick overview of what Experian IdentityWorks provides to protect your personal information.
Credit monitoring across three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion)
IdentityIQ excels in the vital area of credit monitoring, serving as a guardian of your financial health. Opt for the “Secure Max” plan and you'll benefit from top-to-bottom credit monitoring across all three major credit bureaus. This gives you a panoramic view of your financial activities and any changes to your credit reports. With real-time notifications about potential credit card fraud, overdraft alerts, and warnings when your personal information might be compromised in a data breach, you're empowered to act quickly to prevent identity theft.
Plus, you're not left in the dark about your credit status – you can peek at your credit reports every month. The credit score provided is the VantageScore 3.0, a model developed by the major credit bureaus to give you a consistent understanding of your credit health across various lenders.
Dark web surveillance and identity alerts
IdentityIQ's dark web monitoring services probe the internet's hidden regions where cybercriminals traffic stolen data like credit card details, passports, and account passwords. It alerts you if your sensitive information surfaces in these dubious markets.
The service also watches for your data in criminal records and notifies you if your identity is misused to create a fake persona or for criminal activities. Address change alerts further safeguard against mail diversion or property fraud attempts.
Although IdentityIQ diligently watches over your digital footprint, some may prefer services with quicker notifications and broader coverage. Nevertheless, IdentityIQ's offerings, including in the “Secure Plan”, provide a solid defense against identity theft with dark web surveillance and SSN alerts.
Insurance and restoration services
One of IdentityIQ’s standout features is its up to $1 million in stolen funds reimbursement, which comes standard with every plan. That means if your identity gets hijacked, you won’t be footing the bill alone — legal fees, stolen funds, and recovery costs are all covered. That’s a big safety net when things go sideways.
But things get even better with the “Secure Max” plan. In addition to the base coverage, you’ll get an extra $25,000 in insurance per dependent (under 24 and living at home), plus up to $1,500 per week for five weeks in lost wages if identity theft keeps you from work. That’s real peace of mind.
And when it’s time to recover, you’re not left to fend for yourself. IdentityIQ gives you access to a team of U.S.-based restoration experts, including legal consultants, investigators, and even document recovery specialists. Whether it’s a stolen passport, a canceled credit card, or a driver’s license renewal, they’ll help you get your life back on track — fast.
Family-focused identity theft protection
IdentityIQ gets that identity theft doesn’t just target adults — it can affect the whole family. That’s why their “Secure Max” plan includes built-in protection for up to four children under 18 living at the same permanent address.
With $25,000 in identity theft insurance for each child, your little ones are covered against the growing risks of synthetic identity theft and other online threats. Parents can rest easy knowing IdentityIQ applies the same level of vigilance to their kids’ personal data as they do to their own.
From the youngest tech-savvy teen to the adult account holder, everyone under the plan gets robust monitoring, alerts, and recovery support if anything goes wrong. It’s peace of mind for the whole household — because when it comes to identity protection, family comes first.
Some security extras
IdentityIQ goes above and beyond the basics, providing advanced security features to fortify its identity theft protection services.
Bitdefender security suite as a paid add-on
For less than $3 extra per month, IdentityIQ users can upgrade their plan with the Bitdefender Security Suite — a smart move if you’re looking to level up your digital safety. This bundle adds powerful antivirus protection and an unlimited VPN for up to 10 devices, perfect for browsing securely on public Wi-Fi.
You’ll also get parental controls and a password manager, making it especially handy for families using Windows devices. While the VPN used to have a daily limit, IdentityIQ now offers unlimited encrypted traffic, which is a big plus for streaming, working remotely, or just everyday browsing.
Although some may argue that IdentityIQ should double down on its core identity theft protection, adding Bitdefender brings solid value — because stopping cyberthreats at the source is a key part of staying safe.
Wallet recovery assistance
Should you ever lose your wallet, IdentityIQ’s lost wallet assistance steps in to save the day. This service helps cancel and replace all your important cards and documents, including credit cards, IDs, and even your driver’s license.
You’ll also get expert help to quickly replace lost cards, IDs, and documents, so you can secure your accounts and get back on track without missing a beat. In what’s usually a stressful situation, this feature gives you peace of mind and a fast path to recovery.
File-sharing network searches
Venturing beyond the well-lit paths of the internet, IdentityIQ also keeps an eye on the obscure alleys of file-sharing networks. In these digital marketplaces, where personal information may be up for grabs, IdentityIQ's search ensures that if your details appear, you'll get an alert. This proactive monitoring allows you to take immediate action, keeping your identity secure in the ever-evolving online world.
Reduce unwanted contacts (junk mail and telemarketing)
IdentityIQ's Opt-out IQ feature helps reduce unsolicited mail and telemarketing calls. By enrolling you in the National Do Not Call Registry, IdentityIQ helps reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive. It also minimizes your risk of identity theft by removing your information from direct mail lists, curtailing the chance of mail interception.
The benefits include:
Less junk mail: Your name is taken off many direct mail lists, reducing mailbox clutter and exposure to identity theft.
Fewer telemarketing calls: Enrollment in the Do Not Call Registry curtails unsolicited calls, lowering the chance of scam encounters.
Streamlined process: IdentityIQ handles the opt-out procedures, saving you the effort of contacting marketers directly.
Enhanced privacy: Opting out limits the distribution of your personal data, increasing your privacy.
Opt-out IQ is included in all service plans, reflecting IdentityIQ's dedication to proactive identity theft prevention.
Ease of use: How simple is IdentityIQ to use?
Setting up IdentityIQ is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly configuration. The initial setup might test your patience, but once you're through, you'll enjoy a smooth and intuitive experience.
Getting started with IdentityIQ
Setting up an account with IdentityIQ is typically straightforward. To get started with IdentityIQ's “Secure Plus” plan, you'll need to provide basic information like your SSN, date of birth, and phone number. Once your account is set up, you can easily update your personal details, password, security questions, and manage your plan from the account details page.
The account setup process for IdentityIQ “Secure” is quick, taking approximately ten minutes to complete. While IdentityIQ accepts credit card payments, it's worth noting that they do not currently accept PayPal for their services.
Navigating the dashboard
Once you’re signed up, getting around the IdentityIQ dashboard is smooth sailing. Everything feels pretty intuitive — your credit score, alerts, and simulators are right where you need them. We especially liked how updates pop up directly on the dashboard and can also be sent as text alerts (if you opted in during setup), so you’re always in the loop without having to dig around.
Using the mobile app
We've found that IdentityIQ's alert system excels in keeping users informed about potential risks, whether they're accessing it through the web interface or mobile app. Plus, the option for text message alerts upon registration adds an extra layer of convenience.
The app also offers biometric logins and provides easy access to credit scores and reports. However, we've noticed that some higher-tier plans lack features like social media monitoring and parental controls, which might prompt families to seek additional tools for complete protection.
Ending your IdentityIQ subscription
To cancel your IdentityIQ subscription, call their support at (877) 875-4347, request cancellation, and ask for a confirmation email. While there's no option to cancel via the website or email, calling during business hours is effective despite possible wait times and offers of reduced pricing to retain your business.
Customer support: What sort of help do you get with IdentityIQ?
IdentityIQ's customer support, based in the US, is reachable via a toll-free number with extended weekday hours and availability on Saturdays. In emergencies, support is available 24/7. The lack of a dedicated customer-support section on their website is offset by a useful FAQ section and credit report information.
In case of suspected identity theft, US-based fraud restoration experts are ready to assist with protective steps and insurance claims. The customer care team helps with platform inquiries, membership management, and resolving credit monitoring alerts.
Plans and pricing: Is IdentityIQ a smart buy?
IdentityIQ tailors a range of plans to suit various identity protection needs, ensuring there's an option that fits just right for everyone.
| IdentityIQ plans | Price per month (paid monthly) | Price per month (paid yearly, 15% off) |
| Secure Basic | $8.49/month | $7.44/month |
| Secure Plus | $11.49/month | $10.00/month |
| Secure Pro | $21.49/month | $18.49/month |
| Secure Max | $31.49/month | $27.00/month |
Below, let's walk through the different plans and their offerings, highlighting how each one caters to your security requirements:
- Secure Basic – priced at $7.44/month (annual billing): It offers basic features including daily 1-bureau credit report monitoring and up to $1 million in stolen funds reimbursement.
Beyond the basic plan, there are additional options you can select:
Secure Plus – priced at $10.00/month (annual billing): It includes annual 3-bureau credit reports and scores, 1-bureau credit report monitoring, and up to $1 million stolen funds reimbursement.
Secure Pro – priced at $18.49/month (annual billing): The plan covers everything from “Secure Plus”, as well as enhanced credit report monitoring, alerts on crimes committed in your name, and score change alerts.
Secure Max – priced at $27.00/month (annual billing): Includes everything from previous plans plus credit scores simulator and tracker, $25K ID theft insurance for family protection and fraud restoration with LPOA.
IdentityIQ doesn’t just protect your identity — it also offers bundled plans with antivirus and VPN. You can take a look at the plans here >
IdentityIQ does not explicitly mention the availability of free trials or a money-back guarantee on its official website. According to IDIQ's Terms of Service, free trials are available for some services, at their discretion.
Security and privacy: Can you trust IdentityIQ with your info?
IdentityIQ puts strong security front and center to keep your personal information safe.
| Bank-level AES-256 encryption | ✅ |
| Real-time threat and fraud alerts | ✅ |
| Social media identity monitoring | ❌ |
| Two-factor authentication | ✅ |
| Dedicated privacy tools (VPN, password manager, and ad blocker) | ❌ (but you can add them for a small fee) |
Subscribing to IdentityIQ requires providing sensitive data such as name, address, birth date, SSN, and credit card numbers, which is standard for identity protection services. However, it's important to note the implications of sharing personal information with a company based in the USA, part of the FVEY intelligence alliance.
IdentityIQ may share user information with government entities under certain circumstances, such as legal requirements or to prevent fraud, and with third parties, which may be a privacy concern for some users. Users should weigh the benefits of identity protection against the privacy risks associated with data sharing, particularly with a US-based company within the scope of FVEY agreements.
Unlike services such as Aura, which bundles all its extras upfront, IdentityIQ takes a similar approach through a partnership with Bitdefender, offering antivirus, VPN, safe browsing, and AI-powered spam call protection across 10 devices.
How to get started with IdentityIQ: A quick guide
Embarking on the journey to protect your identity is straightforward with IdentityIQ? Follow these steps to secure your personal information:
Select a plan on IdentityIQ's website and click “Get Protected“.
Set up your account with a standard amount of personal details (including your name, email, and address), and create a password.
Enter more identity-related information, including SSN, date of birth, and opt-in for SMS alerts.
Pay with a credit card and answer a few security challenge questions.
Check your email for a welcome message and log in to your dashboard using the last four digits of your SSN.
By following the simple steps outlined above, you can begin the journey to safeguard your identity with confidence.
IdentityIQ alternatives: How does it compare to competitors?
While IdentityIQ holds its ground, it encounters fierce competition from alternatives. Some of the top competitors in the identity theft protection service industry include:
| Starting price | Best for | Standout features | |
| Aura | $9/month (with coupon) | All-in-one family protection | VPN, antivirus, password manager, up to $5M theft insurance |
| IDShield | $14.95/month | Hands-on recovery help | Licensed private investigators, strong legal support, family plans |
| IdentityIQ | $6.99/month | Credit-focused protection with extras | 3-bureau credit monitoring, Bitdefender security, AI-powered spam protection |
Aura shines with its all-in-one bundle — VPN, antivirus, password manager, and up to $5 million in theft insurance — perfect for families wanting simple, broad protection. IDShield focuses on hands-on recovery, offering licensed private investigators and strong legal support, making it ideal if you want expert help when identity theft strikes. IdentityIQ zeroes in on credit monitoring with 3-bureau coverage and useful credit tools, plus extras like Bitdefender antivirus and VPN, all at a budget-friendly price.
So whether you’re after a tech-packed package, personal recovery help, or solid credit monitoring, one of these services has got your back. At the end of the day, peace of mind might just be the best feature of all.
Final verdict: Solid coverage with a few quirks
IdentityIQ brings a lot to the table when it comes to identity theft protection—think 3-bureau credit monitoring, dark web scans, and recovery help if things go wrong. It’s a well-rounded service with plans to match different needs, whether you’re laser-focused on your credit or just want solid, everyday protection.
There’s a lot to like: detailed monitoring, up to $1 million in identity theft insurance, and a dashboard that’s easy to navigate. But it’s not perfect. No free trial, and data-sharing policies may raise a few privacy concerns.
All in all, IdentityIQ is a strong pick if you're after thorough credit tracking and dependable identity protection — just be aware of the trade-offs. If you're looking for more complete, privacy-friendly packages, Aura and Identity Guard are superb alternatives that offer broader coverage and a few extra perks right out of the box.
Other identity theft protection guides on CyberInsider:
- Aura Review
- NordProtect Review
- Experian IdentityWorks Review
- IDShield Review
- LifeLock Review
- McAfee Review
- Identity Guard Review
IdentityIQ FAQ
Is IdentityIQ safe to use?
Yes, IdentityIQ is considered safe to use. It employs SSL encryption to protect your data during transmission, ensuring that your personal details are securely locked away. Access to this sensitive information is strictly limited to authorized personnel, creating a safe environment for your data.
While IdentityIQ is based in the USA and may share information with government entities or third parties when required, it is committed to maintaining the security and privacy of your data, as detailed in its privacy policy.
How many credit bureaus does IdentityIQ monitor?
Depending on the IdentityIQ plan you pick, you'll get different levels of credit bureau monitoring. If you go for the “Secure Plus” plan, it keeps an eye on your credit activity from one bureau only. But if you step up to the “Secure Pro” or “Secure Max” plans, you're getting the full package with monitoring across all three big names in the credit world – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
How can I cancel my IdentityIQ services?
If you decide it's time to part ways with IdentityIQ, you can initiate the cancellation process by getting in touch with their customer support at (877) 875-4347. It's a good idea to ask for a confirmation email once they've processed your request. While you might encounter a bit of a wait or receive offers to reconsider your decision, a firm stance will see you through the cancellation process successfully.
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