What’s the difference between identity and credit checks?

When someone applies for an account or service using your details, an identity check may happen first to confirm who they are. A credit check may happen later if they try to apply for credit, such as a loan, credit card or buy now pay later account.

That’s why identity check alerts are still valuable, even if you have a credit report ban in place. They can help you spot suspicious use of your identity earlier, before it reaches the credit check stage.

A credit report ban adds another layer of protection by helping reduce the risk of unauthorised credit activity. It restricts access to your credit report through credit reporting bodies, which can make it harder for someone to open credit in your name.