In a Nutshell
pros
- 3-bureau credit monitoring
- Up to $1 million reimbursement
- 4.5 stars from 9,000+ reviews
cons
- Have to pay more for Norton services
- No family plan
A brilliant solution for:
- Anyone who wants to keep their identity safe from lurking threats
- People who use online services such as online banking or shopping
- Anyone who uses a social media account regularly
How does it work?
LifeLock is a downloadable software that works quickly and efficiently from the moment you install it. After you sign up for a plan, you will be prompted to download and install the software (this is a click or 2, like any other app you’re used to installing).
Once installed, the proprietary technology scans databases to see if your personal information is being used. Depending on the plan you choose to sign up for, LifeLock also scans the Dark Web, monitors your accounts, and checks your credit report for any inconsistencies, issues, or possible problems. You will receive notification of any suspicious behavior via the contact method you've chosen. You can choose SMS, phone, or email alerts.
Then, LifeLock starts scanning your devices. Depending on which plan you get, you can install LifeLock on up to 5 devices, including laptops, home computers, and smartphones. Whatever device you have the software installed on will be protected. LifeLock scouts for personal information that you have around that leaves you vulnerable to identity theft. You’ll receive an alert from LifeLock if it finds anything questionable.
LifeLock device scans are continuous, meaning the software scans your devices all the time. Additionally, you’ll receive auto-updates of the software, so you are always protected against new and prevalent threats.
What does this service watch out for?
LifeLock offers 3 basic identity theft services (and we’ll dive deeper into each one below):
- Monitoring your personal accounts
- Sending notifications in case of suspicious activity
- Helping you recover in case of a breach
In terms of monitoring your credit, LifeLock is pretty exhaustive. Depending on which plan you sign up for, it includes monitoring:
- Your credit report via all 3 of the major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion)
- Use of your Social Security number or other personal identifying data
- Applications for online loans (payday, etc.)
- Unauthorized USPS address change
- If your information ever shows up on the Dark Web
- If your name shows up on an arrest or sex offender registry
At the most basic level, LifeLock monitors your Social Security number for any unusual activity. LifeLock will notify you if your credit changes, if a credit check is run on your name, and if a loan or other financial obligation is made on your accounts. You’ll also receive monthly credit report checks, but only if you’re signed up for the Ultimate Plus plan. Alerts are sent out if any of these flags are set off (i.e., your information triggers any of these scans), again according to your plan.
Additionally, the Norton Security package includes:
- Ransomware
- Antivirus protection
- Phishing protection
- Antispyware
- Protection against online scams
This is a nice bonus since it’ll help keep your online activity safe as well.
Recovery services - what can Norton Lifelock do if my identity is stolen?
Of course, the most important question is what does LifeLock do in the unfortunate event that your identity is stolen. There are several steps LifeLock will take including:
- A dedicated restoration specialist
LifeLock assigns a US-based specialist that is familiar with legal and technical procedures to your case immediately to help you take decisive action. The specialist will handle your case from beginning to end to ensure that they see it through properly.
- 24/7 customer service
Additionally, you can reach out to a customer service rep anytime for any questions you need answered.
- ID theft insurance
LifeLock has a Million Dollar Protection Package to cover all your expenses. This coverage varies based on the plan you get, but even the most basic coverage ensures you get up to $25,000 reimbursement for stolen funds and personal expenses. Additionally, all plans have up to $1M coverage for legal advice and other legal expenses incurred while trying to resolve your case.
- Lost wallet replacement assistance
In the unfortunate event that you lose your wallet, LifeLock will help. It will get credit cards replaced and canceled, licenses renewed, and Social Security cards updated.
How easy is it to use?
LifeLock is arguably one of the easiest identity theft software options to use. It’s this simple:
Sign up online
Download software and install
LifeLock scans your devices and accounts
LifeLock sends you alerts via SMS, email, or phone
That's all you have to do. If you have ever downloaded an app to your phone or online, then this will be a cinch. LifeLock has PC, Mac, iOS, and Android compatible apps.
Pricing
LifeLock can cost between $8.99 to $26.99 per month in the first year and between $11.99 to $34.99 per month after that. The monthly price will ultimately depend on the package you choose. There are 3 plans to choose from for individuals. One thing we didn’t appreciate was the lack of a family plan option. You can add your kids to the plan for $5.99/month/kid though, so at least there’s that.
Standard Package
Advantage Package
Ultimate Plus Package
Price per month, first year
$8.99
$17.99
$26.99
Price per month, after first year (For Norton)
$11.99
$22.99
$34.99
Additionally, you can get LifeLock with Norton for each of the above packages. You’ll add benefits like:
- Secure up to 5 devices including Macs, PCs, and Androids
- Fight online threats like viruses, spyware, malware, phishing scams, etc.
- Protect online transactions
The price to add Norton to your plan is as shown above. You’ll get the same introductory rate for the first year, and then you’ll add $5/month to your plan’s pricing for the Norton benefits.
Help & Support
LifeLock member services are available 24/7. You can get in touch with them via a toll-free live support number.
LifeLock also has a huge information center that is chock full of useful and detailed information about identity theft, online safety, and other things you really need to know. There are blog articles that teach you about credit, finances, fraud, data breaches, and internet security. It’s got everything, so you should definitely check it out.
Bottom Line
LifeLock brings a lot to the table, including a partnership with a solid brand in the security sector. The Ultimate Plus plan offers the most comprehensive coverage, and that includes things like 5-device coverage, $1M reimbursement insurance, and dark web scanning. The other plans are good if you just want the basic protection, but honestly, when it comes to identity theft, is there really any price too high to ensure your protection? LifeLock has a good reputation and offers a solid product that’s easy to use and easy to recommend.