ExpressVPN Launches Identity Defender to Protect Your Privacy
Using a VPN is vital to online privacy. It strengthens your online privacy via encryption and IP address substitution. ExpressVPN knows this, but also understands that other threats exist. That’s why they’re expanding their online security and privacy tools. Building on existing tools such as the Keys password manager, ad and tracker blockers, and the Aircove line of routers, ExpressVPN is excited to introduce Identity Defender, a new suite of tools for U.S.-based customers. This service aims to give users greater control over their personal information.
Identity Defender comprises four key products: ID Alerts, ID Theft Insurance, a Data Removal service, and Credit Scanner. Depending on the ExpressVPN plan selected, some or all of these new services may be included for free, providing exceptional value and increased protection to users.
Data Removal: Taking Back Control of Your Data
Companies such as data brokers and people-search sites capitalize on your personal information. They compile data – sourced from public records and online activity – and then sell your profile for profit. This information is often used for targeted marketing and background checks. This practice, however, comes at the cost of your privacy, leaving you exposed to identity theft and cyberattacks like phishing. In addition, these companies facilitate unwanted robocalls, doxxing, and harassment.
Removing your data from these sites can be tedious. You must manually contact each site and consistently check to ensure your details are removed. ExpressVPN’s Data Removal service offers a streamlined solution.
With Data Removal, users only need to input a few lines of personal information, and the service handles the rest:
- Search for data: The service scours a broad range of data-broker and people-search sites to find your information.
- Remove data: It then submits removal or opt-out requests on your behalf to each site where your information is found.
- Ongoing monitoring: The service continues to monitor these sites and resubmits removal requests if your data reappears.
By reducing the visibility of your personal data, you can expect fewer unwanted calls, less spam, and a lower risk of identity theft. ExpressVPN’s Data Removal is included for free with the new two-year offer.
ID Alerts: Proactive Monitoring for Identity Theft
Discovering unauthorized credit card use is frustrating, but identity theft can have far more serious consequences. It could involve someone taking out a mortgage or loan in your name. Identity theft occurs when sensitive information like a Social Security number or bank account numbers is used to impersonate you for financial gain or fraudulent activity. Early warning is critical, and ID Alerts monitors key areas of the internet for activity that could increase your risk of identity theft.
ID Alerts provides the following:
- Dark web monitoring: Scans the dark web for your personal information and other sensitive data. It can identify threats that regular internet searches would miss.
- Social Security number monitoring: Alerts you when your SSN is used for various activities, such as loans or employment applications.
- Change of address monitoring: Notifies you about any changes to your home address, which criminals sometimes use to gain access to your information and accounts.
Monitoring for unauthorized changes to your records and fraudulent use of your information could give you a valuable head start in recovering your identity. ID Alerts is a free offering to all new ExpressVPN users.
ID Theft Insurance: Financial Protection in Case of Identity Theft
Identity theft causes enormous stress for victims, and the recovery process can be expensive and time-consuming. You could have money stolen, be on the hook for debts you didn’t incur and might need to go through lengthy steps to prove your situation and restore your credit.
ID Theft Insurance lightens the load by reimbursing you for expenses incurred during the recovery process. Coverage extends up to $1 million. With a one-year or two-year ExpressVPN plan, ID Theft Insurance is included at no extra cost.
Credit Scanner: Monitor Your Credit Health
In the U.S., a credit score reflects your creditworthiness. It is based on your credit accounts, payment history, and other credit-related activities. Lenders, landlords, and even employers use credit scores to assess your financial responsibility.
By tracking your credit history, you can catch mistakes and see how different activities affect your score. More importantly, you can spot possible unauthorized use of your personal information, allowing you to take quick action to report fraud and protect yourself from financial impacts. ExpressVPN’s Credit Scanner lets you monitor and understand your credit health.
Credit Scanner features include:
- Credit score at a glance: Displays your Experian credit score and rating.
- Credit monitoring and alerts: Provides regular updates on activity that can affect your credit.
- Credit score details: Shows the factors that affect your credit score, along with recommended actions.
- Credit protection: Contains quick access to information on how to freeze your credit.
- Credit report: A monthly overview of your credit status, detailing your accounts, balances, and payments (premium offering available with ExpressVPN’s two-year deal).
Enhanced Privacy Protection with Identity Defender
Your personal data is valuable and worth protecting as data theft becomes increasingly common. Combined with existing security tools, the new Identity Defender services offer comprehensive online protection. Identity Defender is integrated seamlessly into the ExpressVPN iOS and Android apps and the website’s My Account section. ExpressVPN users also have access to the following services via the Upgrades tab on their mobile apps:
- Keys password manager (free to all users)
- Ad blocker (free to all users)
- Tracker blocker (free to all users)
- Adult-site blocker (free to all users)
- Dedicated IP
Identity Defender services are rolling out gradually to U.S. users. Existing users who signed up before October 28, 2024, will have access to these services soon. Rollout for other regions is to be confirmed.
Privacy should be a choice. Protect yours with ExpressVPN.
