ATLANTA (AP) -- A new law that allows Georgians to thwart identity thieves by freezing their credit reports takes effect Friday.

The measure puts a $3 cap on the fees the three major credit reporting agencies can charge for the freeze. The law also allows those over age 65 to get the freezes for free.

Consumer advocates say this kind of freeze, which bars credit reporting agencies from releasing information without written permission, is the most effective tool to stop new account fraud.

Governor Sonny Perdue signed the bill into law in May.

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