There’s no shortage of websites that offer free credit scores to consumers. So if you’ve done an online search of places to view your report, score and keep tabs on your credit health, chances are Credit Sesame was at the top of the list.
But is it a reputable platform? And can you trust the scores you see and effectively manage your credit health using the tools it provides?
Keep reading to learn more about Credit Sesame, its offerings, and whether it can be trusted by consumers.
About Credit Sesame
After the last recession, Credit Sesame was founded by Adrian Nazari to help consumers get their credit health and finances back on track. It was one of the first online platforms to offer free credit scores. It has since evolved into a one-stop shop for valuable financial resources and tools to help you improve your finances, meet your goals, save more, boost your credit score, protect your identity and more.
Is Credit Sesame a Legitimate Company?
Yes. Credit Sesame is a Better Business Bureau accredited entity with an A+ rating, and it’s also trusted by millions of Americans.
Is Credit Sesame Safe to Use?
Yes. The online platform has safeguards in place to shield your personal information from cyber thieves. Refer to the Security and Privacy Policies to read about its encryption, firewall and security practices.
Does Credit Sesame Sell Your Information?
No. Credit Sesame does not sell the information it collects from its users to third parties.
Is Credit Sesame Free?
It’s free to register for Credit Sesame, and you’ll get free services like credit monitoring and free access to TransUnion VantageScore 3.0 credit score and monthly credit score updates. You can also get a Sesame Cash account that rewards you as your score goes up. You can also access the Credit Sesame mobile app to manage your credit health on the go.
If you’d prefer a premium service with even more valuable features, choose from these options:
- Advanced Credit Plan: You’ll get daily one bureau credit score updates, monthly three-bureau (Experian, TransUnion and Equifax) credit reports and monthly three-bureau credit score updates. ($9.95 per month)
- Pro Credit Plan: You’ll enjoy all the perks of the Advanced Credit Plan plus three-bureau credit monitoring, credit alerts anytime activity takes place in your credit profile and live assistance that’s available 24/7 if you notice issues in your credit report that need to be resolved. (Cost: $15.95 per month)
- Platinum Protection Plan: You’ll get all the benefits of the Pro Credit Plan along with Social Security number monitoring, lost wallet protection, public records monitoring and black market website monitoring. (Cost: $19.95 per month)
How Does Credit Sesame Make Money?
Credit Sesame partners with financial service providers to offer tailored solutions, like credit cards, insurance and loan offers, to its members. Oftentimes when a member is approved for a product or service, Credit Sesame receives a commission from the financial service provider.
Security Features of Credit Sesame
These built-in security features and member benefits help keep your personal information safe and provide you with effective remedies if your identity is compromised.
Encrypted Data Transfer and Storage
When members enter personal and financial information on Credit Sesame’s website, it’s encrypted using secure socket layer technology (SSL) to ensure the safety of the data. Please note that Credit Sesame uses the same level of encryption as regulated financial institutions and the federal government.
Secure Servers
Credit Sesame’s servers are housed in a secure location that’s monitored 24/7 through live surveillance.
Credit Activity Monitoring
Credit monitoring is also free with a Credit Sesame membership. You’ll get alerts any time there’s activity in your credit profile. Plus, credit monitoring allows you to safeguard your finances, identify fraudulent behavior and easily detect discrepancies in your credit report.
Identity Theft Protection
You’ll get $1,000,000 million in identity theft insurance when you sign up for a free Credit Sesame account.
Platinum Protection members get even more coverage. The plan includes the same amount in identity theft insurance, 24/7 lost wallet protection and 24/7 full-service credit restoration.
How to Get Started with Credit Sesame
Unlock all the benefits Credit Sesame offers by creating a free account online or downloading the mobile app on your iOS or Android device. It only takes 90 seconds of your time, and you can start earning money as your credit score improves.