Tuesday, August 14, 2007

VICTIM ASSISTANCE PROCESS

If you have reason to believe that you are a victim of fraud, Credit Reporting Agencies can assist you in your efforts to protect your credit.

Step 1: Consumer contacts National Consumer Assistance Center
  • Consumers can call the Credit Repoting Agencies, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days each year.
  • A 90-day security alert is immediately added to the consumer's credit file. This alerts creditors to confirm the consumer's identity before extending credit.
  • The consumer's name is removed from prescreened credit solicitation lists as an additional precaution.
  • The consumer is provided a complimentary consumer report.

Step 2: Consumer receives reports

  • The consumer reviews his or her consumer disclosure for fraudulent data and calls a special telephone number listed on the credit report to speak with a consumer assistance associate specially trained in fraud victim assistance.
  • Together, the consumer and the consumer assistance associate identify fraudulent items. Some items are removed immediately; others must be investigated and verified.

Step 3: Investigation begins
Credit Reporting Agencies verify the information that the consumer alleges as fraudulent with the creditors or data furnishers.

  • Upon receipt of a valid police report, Credit Reporting Agencies block alleged fraudulent information from view by creditors and other users of the report. This allows a victim to continue to be credit active without being penalized for any fraudulent information on his or her report.
  • Credit Reporting Agencies employ special system procedures and matching criteria to ensure that fraudulent data is removed as soon as possible.
Step 4: Fraudulent data is removed
Credit Reporting Agencies must complete an investigation within 30 days. If the data contributor cannot verify information as accurate within the statutory deadlines, Credit Reporting Agencies systems are designed to delete or update the information.

Learn more at

SeeYourFreeCreditReport.com

RestoreMyCreditReport.com

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