The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) outlines specifically who can see your
credit profile. Businesses must have a "legitimate business need,"
and a "permissible purpose," as stated in the federal law to obtain
your credit file. Otherwise, only you, and only those who you give written
permission, can access your credit files. Your neighbors, friends, co-workers,
and even your family members cannot have access to your credit profile unless
you authorize it. Some examples of those who can access your credit files
are:
- Credit grantors
- Collection agencies
- Insurance companies
- Employers
Any company that receives a copy of your credit profile will be listed
under the "Inquiry" section of your report.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is the federal law regulating credit
reporting companies like Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union. It has been
in effect since 1971. A revised FCRA became effective October 1, 1997.
This law protects consumers' rights, such as the right to review and contest
information in their credit profiles. It also specifically defines who
can access the information in a credit profile, and how you are notified
of this activity.
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