You should know your rights and what the consequences could be if someone checks your credit report without your consent. Unauthorized credit checks can be brought against an employer or company. You are also entitled to a copy of your credit reports. It is also important to know how to get a copy your credit report.
You have the right of being protected against credit checks that are not authorized
You can use a security freeze to prevent credit checks being unauthorized. If you don't grant the security freeze, it will prevent new credit applications from being approved. It can also hinder the approval process. A security freeze is valid for one year and can help you prevent identity theft. It is important to use it properly. This will not prevent you from running unauthorized credit checks.
You have the right to sue an employer or company
In NYC, a human rights law prevents employers from checking your credit. While this law doesn't prevent employers from doing background checks or conducting other research, it does prohibit them from using credit information to make employment decisions. If you feel that your employer is violating your rights, you may file a lawsuit.
You are entitled to see your credit history
You have the right, under the law to access your credit reports for free if you are refused credit. This applies when an entity takes adverse action against your credit report. The entity must provide you with the name of the credit reporting bureau and a phone number where you can obtain your report. Because inaccurate information could result in unfair or discriminatory treatment, those on government assistance and unemployed are eligible for free credit reports.
If an employer used your credit report without your permission to make hiring decisions, the law gives you the right to file a lawsuit for damages. If you believe the information was false or misleading, you may be able to seek punitive and attorney's costs. However, you should be aware that if you file a lawsuit, you will have to prove that you have been harmed by the unauthorized access.
You have a right to request a copy of your credit report
You can request a copy from any one of the major credit bureaus of your credit history, regardless of whether you have good credit or poor credit. You can request a copy from any credit bureau. They must provide all the information that they have at the time you request. You can also request the names of any person who has seen your report in the past year, or two years. If you are denied a loan, or credit application, the company must provide the name of any credit bureau that denied you.
Your credit score can impact your purchasing power and chances of getting a job. Credit bureaus sell information to businesses in order to make loan or insurance decisions. This information is used by employers for hiring decisions. Although you can request a copy, it is best to wait until you have a valid purpose. False pretenses to obtain a copy can lead to civil and criminal sanctions.