Aug 6, 2008 11:00 pm US/Eastern
3 On Your Side: Credit Reports & Credit Freeze
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
Last year hackers stole the credit information of millions of people from nine major retailers including TJ Maxx. Now 11 people have been indicted for that crime.
If you are concerned about keeping your credit history safe, 3-On Your Side's Jim Donovan found it all comes down to paying attention and not waiting until someone rips you off to take action.
Every time you apply for a mortgage, shop around for a car loan, or sign up for a new credit card, your credit report is reviewed. But how often have you checked your credit report?
Federal law requires that the three major credit reporting companies -- Equifax, Transunion and Experian each offer you a free copy of your credit report once every 12 months. You can obtain free copies of your credit report by only visiting www.annualcreditreport.com.
Check your credit report for accuracy and dispute and incorrect information. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also put a freeze on your credit file which prevents thieves from opening fraudulent accounts in your name. Depending on the state you live, there may be fee involved anywhere from $5 to $20, but that fee is often waived for senior citizens and victims of ID theft.
Many companies advertise that they'll give you a free credit report, but first require you to sign up and pay for things like credit monitoring services. If all that you want to do is obtain a copy of your free credit report or put a freeze on your credit file, visit the links posted below.
RELATED LINKS:
Annual Credit Report
State Security Freeze Laws
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