Protecting Your Credit Record

Although it isn't that common, your credit report will show you if someone is using--or trying to use--your credit information for fraudulent purposes. You may see credit cards or loans you did not apply for, or address change notices you did not submit. Worse, your good credit record may have been damaged. 

Notify the credit bureau(s) at once. They can offer advice and help you put together a list of affected creditors to notify. They also add a fraud statement to your report. This action alerts future creditors to verify your identification before granting credit. Although the credit bureau may be helpful, bear in mind that it is your responsibility to notify creditors of fraud. 

Currently, companies can ask to review your credit history and send written credit or insurance solicitations based on what they find. You have the right to keep your credit information from being distributed without your permission. 

Federal law states that credit bureaus must provide an address and toll free telephone number that you may use to request your credit report not be be distributed without your permission.