LifeLock is one of the most well-known identity theft protection services in the United States. But what does it actually do, how effective is it, and is it worth the cost? This comprehensive review covers everything you need to know about LifeLock — and the alternatives worth considering.
What LifeLock Does
LifeLock monitors your personal information across a range of data sources — credit bureaus, financial accounts, the dark web, and public records — and alerts you when suspicious activity is detected. The service also provides identity theft insurance and restoration assistance if your identity is compromised.
LifeLock's core value proposition is detection and response: it monitors for signs that your identity has been stolen and helps you recover if it has. What it does not do is prevent identity theft from occurring in the first place — it is a monitoring and response service, not a prevention service.
The LifeLock review landscape is mixed. The service has received significant criticism for overpromising its capabilities, and the company has faced regulatory action for deceptive advertising. However, for individuals who want professional monitoring and insurance coverage, it provides genuine value.
LifeLock Pricing and Plans
LifeLock offers three primary plans: Standard, Advantage, and Ultimate Plus. Pricing ranges from approximately $9/month to $30/month, with significant discounts for the first year.
The most significant difference between plans is the level of financial account monitoring and the amount of identity theft insurance provided. The Ultimate Plus plan includes monitoring of investment accounts, 401(k) accounts, and home title — features that are particularly valuable for high-net-worth individuals.
Alternatives to LifeLock
Several alternatives to LifeLock are worth considering. Aura, Identity Guard, and IdentityForce all offer comparable monitoring services, often at lower price points.
For individuals who require a higher level of privacy protection — beyond what any monitoring service can provide — professional privacy services offer a more comprehensive solution. Alibi Agency's Privacy & Identity Protection service provides complete privacy architecture, not just monitoring.
Need comprehensive privacy protection beyond monitoring? Contact us for a free consultation.