🔬 How We Test: Every service on this list was tested hands-on for a minimum of 90 days by our security team. We evaluate alert speed, accuracy, customer service response, claims process, and value for money. No service pays for placement.
1. Aura — Best Overall Identity Protection
- Fastest alerts — ~4 minutes average response
- 3-bureau credit monitoring (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)
- VPN + antivirus included at no extra cost
- $1 million identity theft insurance
- White-glove restoration team handles everything for you
- Family plans cover unlimited children under 18
Affiliate disclosure: We earn a commission if you purchase, at no extra cost to you.
Why Aura is our #1 pick: In our testing, Aura sent fraud alerts an average of 4 minutes after suspicious activity was detected — faster than any other service we tested. It also includes a VPN and antivirus in every plan, which alone justifies much of the subscription cost.
2. DeleteMe — Best for Data Broker Removal
- Human-powered removal from 750+ data brokers
- Quarterly detailed removal reports
- Continuous monitoring and re-removal
- Family and couples plans available
- Best in class for reducing spam calls and emails
Affiliate disclosure: We earn a commission if you purchase, at no extra cost to you.
3. LifeLock — Best for Families
- Backed by Norton — trusted brand since 1992
- $1M insurance on all plans
- Strong family plan with child protection
- Social Security number alerts
Affiliate disclosure: We earn a commission if you purchase, at no extra cost to you.
Full Comparison Table
| Service | Price/mo | Credit Monitor | Dark Web | Insurance | VPN | Free Trial | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aura ⭐ | $12 | ✓ 3 bureaus | ✓ | ✓ $1M | ✓ | ✓ 14 days | 4.9/5 |
| DeleteMe | $10.75 | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | 4.8/5 |
| LifeLock | $11.99 | ✓ 3 bureaus | ✓ | ✓ $1M | ✗ | 30-day MBG | 4.6/5 |
| IdentityForce | $17.99 | ✓ 3 bureaus | ✓ | ✓ $1M | ✗ | 30-day MBG | 4.5/5 |
| IDShield | $14.95 | ✓ 3 bureaus | ✓ | ✓ $5M | ✗ | ✗ | 4.4/5 |
How to Choose the Right Service
The right identity protection service depends on what you're most concerned about:
- Want all-in-one protection? → Aura is the best choice. Credit monitoring, dark web, VPN, antivirus, and insurance all in one.
- Getting too many spam calls and emails? → DeleteMe removes your data from the sources causing it.
- Have a family to protect? → Aura's family plan covers up to 5 adults plus unlimited children.
- On a budget? → DeleteMe at $10.75/month offers excellent value for data removal specifically.
Our Recommendation
Start with Aura's free trial. If you also get a lot of spam, add DeleteMe. Together they cover every major identity and privacy threat.
*Affiliate links — we earn a commission at no extra cost to you