Data security is a growing concern among corporations and private individuals in Pennsylvania. This is especially true of consumer credit information. The Fair Credit Reporting Act was passed to standardize the means through which everyday consumers’ financial and credit history is stored, collected and distributed.
In the United States, Experian, Equifax and TransUnion are the three major credit reporting agencies that are charged with distributing consumer credit information. These companies process tremendous volumes of information they receive from smaller subsidiaries. Because these companies do not generally work directly with consumers, people who regularly check their credit reports often find errors that require correction. Sometimes, errors occur as a result of typos or outdated data. However, in some cases, erroneous entries on a credit report may indicate identity theft. This is a very serious offense in which an unauthorized person uses someone else’s credit and financial data to make fraudulent purchases.
The good news for those who find data entry errors or suspicious entries on their credit report is there is a process through which consumers may notify credit reporting agencies of incorrect data. While the credit reporting agencies allow consumers to submit a written dispute, more complex cases may require the assistance of an attorney.
Low credit scores, predatory lending and unexpected termination of employment are all problems that can stem from credit report inaccuracies. The attorneys at Bensley Law Offices are committed to helping everyday people fight back against the challenges an erroneous entry on a credit report may present. If you want to learn more, check out our page on consumer protection methods.