What are the 8 best Identity Guard alternatives right now?

Identity Guard is a well-established identity theft protection service that offers comprehensive monitoring and protection from identity theft starting at $8.99 per month for individuals (or a promotional $7.50 per month if you pay for the whole year at once). It provides dark web monitoring and offers up to $1 million in insurance coverage across its three main plans — Value, Total, and Ultra.

Higher-tier plans include high-risk transaction monitoring and extensive monitoring for suspicious activity in your bank accounts, credit cards, investments, and social media. Identity Guard also includes credit protection features such as three-bureau credit monitoring, monthly credit scores, and Experian credit lock, along with online security tools like safe browsing and a password manager.

Some people may look for Identity Guard alternatives because the basic Value plan has fewer features than the higher tiers, while others may find that competitors offer better pricing or include extras like VPN protection that Identity Guard doesn’t bundle in. Whether you’re after better value for money, more security features to protect you from various types of identity theft, or different coverage options, checking out the competition can help you find exactly what you need. To understand how to protect your personal information effectively, you should compare different monitoring approaches and coverage options across various services.

Disclaimer: This overview of Identity Guard alternatives below is based on the information available as of September 24, 2025. Please note that pricing information may include promotional or introductory rates that are subject to change, and regular pricing may be higher after promotional periods end. We recommend verifying current pricing and terms directly with each service provider before making a purchasing decision.

1. NordProtect

NordProtect combines comprehensive monitoring with advanced privacy tools. Created by the cybersecurity company behind NordVPN, this service goes beyond basic identity theft protection to offer a complete security package that protects both your personal information and your digital privacy.

NordProtect’s strength lies in its cybersecurity-first approach. The service scans the dark web for your personal information and monitors your credit file for suspicious changes, sending immediate alerts when it detects threats. Beyond these standard features, NordProtect’s higher-tier plans include extras that competitors don’t always offer, like VPN protection and personal data removal services that help reduce your online exposure to prevent identity theft.

Pros and cons

The nine reasons that make NordProtect stand out include:

• Trusted cybersecurity expertise. Built by the company behind NordVPN, bringing proven online security knowledge to identity protection.
• Exceptional value. Starting at just $5.49 per month for the first 24 months, NordProtect stands as one of the most budget-friendly options available.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage. All plans include up to $1 million for identity theft recovery, plus cyber extortion recovery of up to $50,000 and online fraud coverage of up to $10,000.
• Advanced monitoring features. NordProtect doesn’t only monitor the dark web for your personal information and send you immediate security alerts. Its premium plans also include malware breach alerts and criminal records monitoring that many competitors don’t offer. With immediate criminal record alerts, you get notified if your identity is linked to a criminal record so you can take action to protect yourself from criminal identity theft.
• Immediate alerts about suspicious credit activity. NordProtect monitors your credit file with all three major credit bureaus and notifies you of suspicious activity, such as new credit inquiries or account openings.
• Integrated privacy tools. Gold and Platinum plans bundle NordVPN to encrypt your online traffic and improve your security when you browse the internet. NordVPN is an award-winning VPN service covering 127 countries with its ultra-fast network of 8,000+ servers.
• Data removal service. Platinum plan includes Incogni, which actively removes your personal information from data broker databases and people search sites to reduce spam and scam risks.
• User-friendly setup and interface. Whether you’re accessing NordProtect through your web browser or mobile app, the service features Nord's signature clean design with intuitive navigation that makes it easy for anyone to use
• Risk-free trial. A 30-day money-back guarantee lets you test the service without commitment.

However, NordProtect has several cons:

• No family plans. NordProtect focuses on individual protection, which isn’t ideal for households with multiple people to protect.
• A US focus. NordProtect is currently available only to US citizens, so you won’t be able to use the service if you live elsewhere.
• A newer service. As a more recent entry to the identity protection market, it has less historical data than some established competitors.

2. Aura

Aura has established itself as a family-focused identity protection service since its launch in 2019. The service combines handy security tools into one easy-to-use package. What makes Aura particularly appealing is its comprehensive approach — if you’re researching Aura alternatives, it’s worth noting that Aura bundles antivirus, VPN, and password management tools in one package.

Aura’s family plans include both adult and child identity monitoring — they can protect up to five adults and an unlimited number of children simultaneously. This is great for larger households that want all-around protection without needing separate subscriptions for each family member. Aura’s individual plans start at $12 per month, with family plans starting at $32 per month.

Pros and cons

Aura offers several appealing advantages:

• Great family coverage. Plans protect up to five adults and unlimited children, with built-in parental controls and monitoring for cyberbullying or online predators.
• Three-bureau credit monitoring. Tracks your credit reports from three major credit bureaus for complete financial oversight.
• All-in-one protection. Includes VPN, antivirus, and password manager at no extra cost, unlike some competitors who charge separately for these features.
• Data removal service. Actively works to remove your personal information from data broker websites.
• Insurance coverage. Up to $1 million per adult in identity theft insurance, with family plans offering up to $5 million total coverage.
• Threat alerts. Fast notifications when your personal data appears on the dark web or in breaches.

Some Aura’s limitations to keep in mind include:

• A lengthy setup. For some services, such as parental controls, you’ll need to manually input your child’s information as well as hardware specifics during the initial setup.
• It may feel overwhelming. With so many bundled tools and features, some users might initially find the interface crowded or complex.
• Higher cost for premium features. The comprehensive nature means Aura costs more than simpler, single-focus services.

3. IdentityForce

For users seeking Identity Guard alternatives or McAfee alternatives that offer both cybersecurity and identity protection, IdentityForce brings enterprise-grade service, backed by the credibility of TransUnion, one of the three major credit bureaus. With 19 years of experience, IdentityForce has built a reputation serving major corporations and federal agencies while also offering protection for individuals and families.

The service offers two main plans for individual customers: UltraSecure (at $19.90/month for individuals and $24.90/month for families) and UltraSecure+Credit (at $34.90/month for individuals and $39.90/month for families). However, the pricing makes IdentityForce one of the more expensive options on the market.

Pros and cons

IdentityForce brings several important benefits to the table:

• TransUnion backing. Being owned and operated by one of the three major credit bureaus provides significant credibility and access to comprehensive credit data.
• Enterprise-grade protection. The same level of security used by major corporations and government agencies is available to individual consumers.
• Medical fraud detection. The plans include specialized monitoring for the risk of medical identity theft, alerting users when their medical records are exposed.
• Social media monitoring. IdentityForce scans social media platforms for inappropriate or potentially harmful posts.
• Identity theft insurance coverage. Up to $2 million in coverage with UltraSecure+Credit plans and $1 million with the UltraSecure plans.
• 30-day trial. Offers a trial period for the UltraSecure plans, allowing you to test the service before committing.
• Dedicated restoration specialists. Provides identity restoration services with professional support.
• Additional protection. IdentityForce bundles a VPN for mobile and online PC protection in all its plans.

Some limitations to consider:

• Higher pricing. At $19.90 to $39.90/month, depending on the plan, IdentityForce is much more expensive than many competitors.
• Limited basic plan features. The UltraSecure plan doesn’t include credit monitoring from all three major bureaus.
• Quarterly credit reports only. Credit score monitoring happens just once every three months, which some users might find too infrequent.
• VPN protection only on your mobile. The VPN option is limited to your mobile phone.
• Value concerns. The high price point may not justify the features offered compared to more affordable alternatives.

4. LifeLock

LifeLock has been a pioneer in identity theft protection since 2005 and one of the first dedicated services focused on proactive monitoring and recovery assistance. Now part of the Norton family, LifeLock combines identity protection with Norton’s cybersecurity expertise. If you’re considering LifeLock alternatives, it’s important to understand how LifeLock compares to newer services in the market.

What makes LifeLock particularly attractive is its integration with Norton 360 security tools. The higher-tier plans combine identity monitoring with comprehensive device protection. The service offers three plan tiers — Standard, Advantage, and Ultimate Plus. You can choose from individual plans, family plans for two adults, and family plans for two adults and up to five kids. 

As for pricing, individual plans start at $7.50/mo for the first year (if paid annually) for the individual Standard plan, with more comprehensive Ultimate Plus individual coverage available at $19.99/mo for the first year (if paid annually). Prices of family pans range from $12.49/mo to $38.99/mo for the first year (if paid annually). LifeLock monitors hundreds of millions of data points per second and provides US-based personal restoration specialists if your identity is compromised. 

Pros and cons

Several factors make LifeLock worth considering:

• Comprehensive financial monitoring. LifeLock tracks a wide range of transactions, including payday loans, 401(k) plans, and cash withdrawals for potential fraud.
• Strong insurance coverage. LifeLock offers up to $1 million coverage for assistance from lawyers and experts.
• Child protection features. Family plans include dedicated identity monitoring and safety alerts for children, with Social Security number monitoring.
• Integrated device security. When bundled with Norton 360, LifeLock provides 

malware protection, ransomware detection, and cybersecurity tools for laptops, smartphones, and tablets.

• Password manager included. Norton 360 integration includes access to Norton’s password management tools.
• Webcam protection. Bundles that include Norton 360’s security features prevent unauthorized camera access.
• Risk-free trial. A 30-day free trial with no restrictions allows you to test all features.
• Professional restoration support. Dedicated identity restoration specialists help with recovery if someone steals your identity.

Potential drawbacks to keep in mind:

• Expensive family coverage. The family plan (for two adults and up to five children under the age of 18) can come up to $69.99 per month, which is costly for larger families.
• Adult coverage limitation. Family plans are restricted to two adults (member and spouse/partner), which may not accommodate households with more than two adults needing protection.
• Separate app management. Identity protection and device security tools operate through different applications, which can feel disconnected and clunky.
• Higher renewal costs. Pricing increases significantly after the one-year promotional period ends.
• Budget considerations. The comprehensive level of protection may not fit every budget.

5. PrivacyGuard

PrivacyGuard focuses on simplicity and quick setup without overwhelming users with complex features. The service offers three clear plan tiers that make it easy to choose the right level of protection for your needs.

What sets PrivacyGuard apart is its emphasis on essential protection features without the bells and whistles that could complicate the user experience. The company offers plans starting at $9.99 per month for basic Identity Protection, with Credit Protection at $19.99 per month and comprehensive Total Protection at $24.99 per month. All plans include dedicated ID fraud resolution agents and the PrivacyGuard mobile app for easy monitoring.

Pros and cons

PrivacyGuard delivers value in several important areas:

• Clear and simple pricing structure. Three distinct plans make it easy to choose the right coverage without confusion.
• Wide monitoring scope. The Total Protection plan includes everything from Social Security number monitoring to children’s SSN monitoring and public records scanning.
• Three credit bureau monitoring. Credit Protection and Total Protection plans offer 24/7 monitoring from all three major credit bureaus.
• Strong insurance coverage. PrivacyGuard offers $1 million identity theft insurance with no deductible.
• Affordable entry point. The basic Identity Protection plan costs $9.99 per month.
• Useful credit tools. A credit score simulator and a financial calculator help users understand and improve their credit.
• Dedicated support. Each plan includes access to a dedicated identity fraud resolution agent.

Some PrivacyGuard drawbacks include:

• Customer support concerns. Some reviews indicate that customer service quality can be inconsistent.
• Fewer advanced features. PrivacyGuard lacks some of the sophisticated monitoring and privacy tools offered by premium competitors.
• Basic mobile experience. The app and overall user experience may feel less polished compared to newer services.
• No family-specific plans. While the Total Protection plan covers children’s SSN monitoring, PrivacyGuard doesn’t offer dedicated family plan structures like some competitors do.

6. ID Watchdog

ID Watchdog offers identity theft protection plans directly to consumers and through the employee benefits marketplace. Acquired by Equifax, one of the major credit bureaus, in 2017, the company provides Select and Premium plans for direct individual consumers.

What makes ID Watchdog notable is its comprehensive approach to family protection and its availability through workplace benefits. The service also offers family coverage options, with family plans allowing one more adult and up to four children. ID Watchdog emphasizes child protection features across all plan tiers.

Pros and cons

ID Watchdog offers several advantages:

• Strong child protection features. Family plans include Equifax Child Credit Lock and Equifax Child Credit Monitoring to help better protect children.
• Registered sex offender reporting. The service searches for sex offenders in your area and alerts you when offenders move into or out of the neighborhood, providing reports with maps, offender photos, and offense details for up to 10 addresses each month.
• Financial account monitoring. ID Watchdog alerts you about potentially fraudulent transactions on your credit, banking, investment, 401(k) retirement plans, HSA, and student loan accounts.
• High insurance coverage. The Premium plan for families provides up to $2 million in insurance coverage, while other plans include identity theft insurance for recovery expenses.
• Family-focused design. Family plans can accommodate one additional adult and up to four children and offer specialized protection features.
• Employee benefit availability. This identity theft protection service may be available through some workplace benefits programs, potentially offering more affordable access.
• Additional security features. Premium plans offer a top-level VPN service and online threat protection for your devices.
• Identity theft resolution support. Higher-tier plans include personalized identity theft resolution assistance.

Some limitations to consider:

• Plan complexity. Multiple plan options across consumer and employee channels may create confusion when comparing features.
• Specialization limitations. While ID Watchdog specializes in credit and financial account monitoring, it may lack the comprehensive identity protection features offered by more well-rounded competitors.
• Market positioning. Less prominent brand recognition compared to some larger competitors in the identity protection space.

7. IdentityIQ 

IdentityIQ combines identity theft prevention with financial wellness tools. You might like this identity theft protection solution if you’re particularly concerned about your credit health.

What sets IdentityIQ apart is its flexible pricing structure and extensive feature set. The service offers four plan tiers — Secure Basic, Secure Plus, Secure Pro, and Secure Max — with prices ranging from $7.44/mo for the first year for basic protection (if paid annually) to $27/mo for the first year for premium coverage (if paid annually). All plans include $1 million in stolen funds reimbursement and US-based identity restoration services. Higher-tier plans include thorough credit monitoring and exclusive tools like a credit score simulator.

Pros and cons

IdentityIQ brings several compelling advantages to users:

• Flexible plan options. Four distinct plans, ranging from $7.44 to $27 monthly, allow you to choose the right level of protection for your budget and needs.
• Stolen funds protection. All plans include $1 million in stolen funds reimbursement coverage.
• Complete credit monitoring options. The Secure Max plan offers monthly three-bureau credit reports and scores, while other plans provide varying levels of credit monitoring from daily one-bureau to bi-annual three-bureau coverage.
• Advanced credit tools. The Secure Max plan includes an exclusive credit score simulator and tracker to help users understand how financial decisions impact their credit scores.
• Comprehensive identity monitoring. All plans feature dark web monitoring, SSN alerts, synthetic ID theft protection, and alerts on crimes committed under your name.
• US-based restoration support. Every plan includes dedicated US-based identity restoration services with legal power of attorney for fraud resolution.
• Unique convenience features. All plans include lost wallet assistance, opt-out services for junk mail and do-not-call lists, and checking account report monitoring.
• Family protection. The Secure Max plan includes ID theft protection service with up to $25,000 in ID theft insurance for family protection.

Some IdentityIQ disadvantages include:

• Limited credit monitoring on basic plans. Secure Basic and Secure Plus plans only offer one-bureau credit monitoring.
• Feature restrictions by tier. Important tools like credit score simulators and monthly credit reports are only available on the most expensive Secure Max plan.
• No dedicated family plans. While family protection insurance is available with the Secure Max plan, IdentityIQ doesn’t offer multi-user family plan structures like some competitors do.
• Credit report frequency varies. Lower-tier plans only provide annual or bi-annual credit reports compared to monthly reports on the premium plan.

8. IDShield

Since its launch in 2003, IDShield has established a solid reputation for protecting individuals and families from identity theft and fraud. The service focuses on practical, family-centered features, including child Social Security number monitoring and dark web monitoring.

IDShield is a great solution for families seeking reliable, cost-effective identity protection without unnecessary complications. Although it may lack some of the sophisticated tools offered by competitors, it provides trustworthy coverage at budget-friendly prices.

Pros and cons

IDShield might appeal to you because of the following features:

• Budget-friendly family coverage. Family plans protect two adults plus up to 10 dependent children for less than $30 per month.
• Child identity protection. Family plans feature dedicated monitoring for minors’ personal information, including their SSN.
• Personalized alert system. Users can customize notifications for specific activities such as SSN usage or credit-related changes.
• Expert consultation access. You can get access to fraud specialists and licensed professionals for identity theft guidance and support.
• Social media oversight. With reputation management tools, you can review your online presence to identify potential privacy vulnerabilities.
• Comprehensive monitoring scope. Tracks personal information, including SSN, email addresses, and public records for suspicious activity.
• Dark web monitoring. IDShield searches dark web marketplaces and forums for compromised personal data like SSNs and email addresses.
• Restoration services. You may receive complete identity recovery support with unlimited access to licensed private investigators and up to $3 million in reimbursement, which is significantly more than some competitors offer.
• User-friendly setup. The straightforward onboarding process makes protection accessible even for non-tech-savvy users.

IDShield has the following cons:

• Restricted credit monitoring. Three-bureau credit monitoring requires upgrading to higher-priced plans, with basic coverage limited to single-bureau options.
• Limited cybersecurity integration. Unlike competitors such as Aura or LifeLock, IDShield doesn’t bundle antivirus software or VPN services.
• Adult coverage limitation. Family plans are restricted to two adults (member and spouse/partner), which may not accommodate households with more than two adults needing protection.

How to find the right identity protection service for you

Finding the perfect identity theft protection service doesn’t need to be complicated. The main thing is understanding your specific needs and priorities first. Are you looking to protect your entire household? Is detailed credit monitoring your main concern? Or maybe you’re more focused on securing your online privacy?

Different services excel in different areas. For instance, Aura stands out for families thanks to its extensive coverage for multiple users, while NordProtect is ideal if you want privacy-focused tools and proactive online protection. The most important factors to consider when selecting the right identity theft protection service include:

• Monitoring scope and coverage. For complete protection, look for services that track all three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) while continuously scanning the dark web for compromised data. This dual approach means you’ll be notified about financial and personal threats.
• Family protection features. If you need to protect multiple household members, prioritize services offering cost-effective family plans with essential features like child identity monitoring, parental controls, and multi-user protection capabilities.
• Integrated cybersecurity tools. If online safety is your priority, consider services like NordProtect or Aura that include privacy tools like built-in VPNs, antivirus protection, or anti-malware solutions to safeguard your devices and personal information.
• Budget considerations. Avoid paying for unnecessary features you won’t use. Entry-level options from services like PrivacyGuard or IdentityIQ work well if you’re working with a tighter budget.
• Threat assessment. Consider your current risk level and look into the difference between credit monitoring vs. identity theft protection. If you've previously experienced identity theft or data breaches, prioritize services offering extensive support with recovery and insurance coverage to prevent identity theft in the future.
• Service integration. Think about how identity protection fits into your existing security setup. If you already use certain security tools, choosing a complementary service can provide better overall coverage.

The best way is to pick an identity theft protection service that actually fits what you need, instead of just going with the one that has the most features. The right service should make you more secure without making your life more complicated.

Disclaimer: This blog post is written by NordProtect, one of the Identity Guard alternatives featured in this article. As NordProtect, we have a financial interest in promoting our own service, and this inherently creates a bias. While we’ve made efforts to present accurate and balanced information, we encourage you to conduct your own research and consult multiple sources before making a purchasing decision.