LifeLock review: is it worth it?
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Identity theft is currently a top crime concern for American consumers. There were more than 1 million identity theft reports recorded in just the year 2023, and associated annual losses exceeded $12.5 billion. Credit card fraud is by far the biggest of these, and cyber criminals are also rapidly evolving their tactics and adapting to new technologies like artificial intelligence to commit more sophisticated forms of older identity theft crimes like investment scams and loan fraud. Knowing how real and serious these threats are, I’m always watching for more effective tools to guard against the risk of identity theft. I most recently got to test LifeLock, comparing it against other leading identity protection services.
LifeLock is a big name in identity theft protection in 2024. Now part of Gen Digital Inc.–formerly Norton LifeLock–alongside other security brands like Avast, AVG, and CCleaner, LifeLock maintains its core identity while integrating with Norton's security infrastructure. In this review, I'll help you determine whether LifeLock's protection meets your security needs.
LifeLock overview
| Rating 🏅 | 4/5 (based on user reviews and our analysis) |
| Overall rank ⭐️ | #2 out of 5 overall for identity theft prevention services |
| Pricing 💵 |
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| Key features 🧩 |
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| Notable benefits ➕ |
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| Limitations 🗃️ |
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I found that LifeLock’s service structure is clear and comprehensive, but there is some confusion in the naming conventions. There are three basic subscription tiers, referred to as Standard (the lowest level), Advantage, and Ultimate Plus. The Standard plan becomes Norton 360 with LifeLock Select when you bundle it with Norton 360 security features, but Advantage and Ultimate Plus keep their existing names in the bundled form.
The three tiers are available as standalone products and in Norton 360 bundles for individuals, couples, or families. These bundles combine award-winning security technology with LifeLock identity protection to deliver more value by providing comprehensive endpoint and personal data safety.
Based on our testing methodology and comparative analysis, LifeLock ranks highly among the best identity theft protection services. This is particularly because of its strength in real-time monitoring and recovery assistance.
LifeLock: pros and cons
What does LifeLock do?
LifeLock operates as a comprehensive identity monitoring and recovery service. The core function involves continuous surveillance of personal information across multiple channels, including credit bureaus, financial institutions, and the dark web.
It monitors for possible misuse of your SSN or new credit accounts opened under your name, alerting you in real time via its mobile app and email when it identifies suspicious activity. The early warning system allows you to respond quickly when someone tries to commit identity theft in these ways.
LifeLock provides dedicated recovery specialists if you become a victim of identity theft and reimburses stolen funds according to your plan level. The integration with Norton 360 adds an extra layer of prevention through device security and VPN services, aiming to protect your personal information before a cybercriminal can access it.
LifeLock features
I examined each of LifeLock’s features in detail so that I could fully understand what the service provides and how it compares with the competition. Here's a breakdown of the key features and their implementation across the subscription and plan levels:
| Feature | Details | Availability |
| Identity Theft Insurance |
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| Credit Monitoring | Single or three-bureau credit monitoring with alerts |
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| Financial Monitoring | Bank, credit card, and investment account monitoring |
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| Dark Web Monitoring | Scans the dark web for personal information leaks | All plans |
| SSN Monitoring | Alerts for SSN usage and suspicious activity | All plans |
| Criminal Record Monitoring | Scans for false criminal records using identity | All plans |
| Norton 360 Integration (Bundle plans only) |
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Credit monitoring
LifeLock’s credit monitoring features vary significantly by subscription tier. The single-bureau monitoring works, as I would expect in lower tiers, and will work well enough for users with less exposure or who are prepared to keep a close eye on their own credit reports. The Ultimate Plus three-bureau coverage provides a more complete picture suited to users with a greater risk of identity theft or more complex financial and credit profiles.
Dark web monitoring
Dark web monitoring proved thorough in my testing. When I deliberately exposed test credentials on various forums and marketplaces, LifeLock detected and reported these within 24-48 hours, which are competitive but not exceptional response times. Immediately upon logging in, it also detected an old breach that I was already aware of and had taken action on.
Bank account monitoring
Bank account monitoring works best with major institutions where integration is seamless. Smaller banks and credit unions often require additional verification steps. The Ultimate Plus monitoring covers traditional bank accounts as well as investment accounts.
Extra security features
The Norton 360 bundle adds solid security features. The VPN handles basic security needs but lacks some features found in dedicated services. The included password manager and cloud storage work well but don't stand out massively from competitors.
I also examined the recovery service documentation and support protocols thoroughly. Support staff demonstrated good knowledge of recovery procedures, and the million-dollar insurance coverage includes specific provisions for lost wages and child or elder care during recovery – practical considerations that can make a real difference during actual identity theft incidents.
LifeLock subscription options
LifeLock offers plans and subscription pricing options for individuals, couples, and families. Each tier adds to the features of the previous level. Here's a detailed breakdown of the available LifeLock plans:
| Plan Level | Key Features | Individual | Couple (2 Adults) | Family (2 Adults + 5 Children) |
| Standard |
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| Advantage | All Standard features, plus:
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| Ultimate Plus | All Advantage features, plus:
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All prices in this table are first-year rates with annual billing. All plans include up to $1 million for lawyers and experts per adult in the event of an identity theft incident.
LifeLock app
LifeLock's mobile experience spans two applications: the standalone Norton Identity (formerly LifeLock ID Theft Protection) and the Norton 360 app. I initially felt that the dual-app tactic was a bit excessive, but both apps worked well. However, my testing focused on Norton Identity. When I simulated potential identity threats, push notifications arrived within minutes, and I particularly appreciated the in-app alert response system's immediate action options. Another interesting note is the level of security in the apps, which borders on the paranoid. Specifically, both apps prevented screenshots, similar to many banking and finance apps. While there is a cybersecurity argument for this protocol, it makes it more difficult to show you good user interface images.
I spent considerable time testing the Ultimate Plus credit monitoring features. The credit score interface displays VantageScore 3.0 data clearly, and I found the trending information especially useful for tracking score changes. The three-bureau credit monitoring alerts appear in a straightforward timeline format that I could quickly scan for issues.
Both apps maintain strong user satisfaction scores: 4.8 on iOS and 4.6 on Android. My experience mostly backs up these ratings, although I did encounter occasional sync delays between web and mobile interfaces. I typically prefer to use tools like this on a desktop or laptop–preferably in a browser window– but you can access all LifeLock's core features on your phone if you prefer the mobile form factor.
How to use LifeLock
Based on my testing of this service, I will take you through the necessary steps to get up and running with LifeLock.
Getting started
There are a few steps to take before you can get LifeLock. First, go to the LifeLock website and select a plan tier that suits you. Prepare your Social Security Number, financial account details, and identification records before you start the registration.
Then, you will create your account credentials and verify who you are during setup. LifeLock goes through a multi-step verification process, and I felt it did the job well without being too inconvenient. The next step is to enter the information you'd like LifeLock to monitor on your behalf, such as SSN, financial accounts, and contact info.
Managing alerts
LifeLock's alert management system operates through both the mobile app and web dashboard. When I tested the service, I found the mobile app particularly efficient for quick responses. Alerts are structured so you can easily determine the type of potential threat and immediate response needed.
Although I like taking care of my configuration on a PC, I prefer to set up push notifications on my mobile device to manage my alerts. Within the alert setting, you can specify how alerts are added and what type of notification preferences should occur for various sorts of monitoring to prevent unnecessary alerts on your mobile device.
Accessing additional services
Beyond basic monitoring, LifeLock offers several additional services that require individual setup. You'll need to authorize access to your credit reports for credit monitoring, and I found this process straightforward through the web dashboard.
If you’ve chosen a bundle, you’ll have to activate the Norton 360 security features separately. You'll need to download and install the appropriate software on your devices to do this. The VPN service requires a separate activation, and you also have to set up the password manager individually.
As far as recovery services, I recommend bookmarking the member services contact numbers in advance. I suggest also saving the regular support number and the 24/7 emergency theft assistance line since the response times and services differ between these options.
Our methodology
At Cybernews, We believe that detailed, balanced reviews require extensive research and analysis. Our specialists use an elaborate methodology while assessing different features of the service in this LifeLock review.
What we did was this:
Protection Features Analysis (30%): We assess the credibility and comprehensiveness of vital features like credit monitoring, dark web monitoring, and social security number(SSN) monitoring.
Alerts (25%): How quickly, how correctly, and with what level of customization the system offers alerts.
Recovery Services (20%): How much support is available via dedicated specialists, as well as the type of identity theft insurance and help freezing credit or contacting institutions.
User Experience (15%): We factored in ease of setup, interface design, mobile functionality, and educational resources.
Value for Money (10%): We looked closely at pricing, features, family or couples plans, free trials, and satisfaction or money-back guarantees when grading this category.
Based on this framework, we assign a final grade to the service so that we can offer you a quantitative as well as qualitative evaluation.
Conclusion
In testing, I found that, while it's a great service compared to many alternatives, the functional areas where LifeLock continues to try and differentiate itself from other services often don't make much difference in practice. It reached a final grade of 82% (in our testing) to come in second after Aura.
LifeLock stands out with its wide range of monitoring and Norton 360 integration. It has a very detailed reporting system and quick alerts, although it is well behind Aura’s lightning speed. Having said that, the pricing needs some serious thought, particularly when you consider how much the renewal rates increase and certain restrictions for lower tiers.
LifeLock is a good option for people who want strong identity protection and the option of comprehensive device security with the Norton brand behind it. I recommend the Advantage tier for most users, as it delivers robust coverage without the steep Ultimate Plus premium. Still, families needing full-coverage benefits may believe the extra bells and whistles included with Ultimate Plus make it worth paying the era.
The bottom line is that LifeLock is a competent and comprehensive identity theft solution, particularly for fans of the Norton or Norton 360 brands.
FAQ
Can LifeLock be trusted?
Yes. While the original company faced regulatory issues in 2015, LifeLock has operated with distinction since its acquisition by Norton and integration into Gen Digital. Current operations follow strict security standards, with clear service terms and verified protection capabilities backed by one of cybersecurity's most established names.
Who owns LifeLock?
Gen Digital Inc. owns LifeLock following multiple corporate transitions. LifeLock was originally independent but was acquired by Symantec in 2016, which became Norton LifeLock in 2019. The 2022 merger with Avast created Gen Digital, though LifeLock maintains its distinct brand identity and core services.
Does LifeLock protect from hackers?
No, LifeLock doesn't directly prevent hacking attempts. Instead, it monitors for signs that your information has been compromised and alerts you to potential misuse. When bundled with Norton 360, you get additional preventive protection through antivirus and VPN services.
Does LifeLock scan the dark web?
Yes, LifeLock actively scans dark web forums and marketplaces for personal information that has been exposed. I received accurate alerts during testing when test credentials appeared in dark web monitoring. However, this scanning can't remove already-exposed information.
Is anything better than LifeLock?
Yes, Aura is better overall for most users. Aura has far faster alerts and better dark web scanning. LifeLock's main advantage is its fast and comprehensive credit report updates, and some users will also be drawn to the Norton 360 integration.
How much does LifeLock really cost?
Initial promotional rates range from $7.50 to $19.99 monthly for individual plans, with renewal rates increasing by 30-50% after the first year. Family protection costs more, starting at $18.49 monthly. While Norton 360 bundles add a few dollars monthly, they often provide better value through added security features.
Can I use LifeLock without Norton 360?
Yes. LifeLock offers standalone identity protection without Norton's security features. While bundled plans provide integrated device security and VPN services, the core identity monitoring and recovery services remain identical in standalone plans. Choose based on whether you need all of the additional cybersecurity tools.
What’s the difference between LifeLock Standard and Ultimate Plus?
First, note that the Standard plan is called "Select" in Norton 360 bundles, while Ultimate Plus maintains its name across all offerings. Ultimate Plus adds three-bureau credit monitoring, investment account alerts, and priority support, as well as higher insurance limits. Standard (or Select) provides only basic identity monitoring with single-bureau credit tracking.
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