A new law has been put on books by Congress to help combat losses. It allows you, consumer to request a free credit report from credit agencies once a year. You should not hesitate to take advantage of it. However, law has a rollout feature which does not allow full access for all Americans until September 1 of this (2005) year.

While this is a step in right direction, in typical fashion government continues to leave populace exposed. You should access your credit report much more often than once a year. If an identity theft takes place just after receiving free credit reports, an enormous amount of damage can be done before you can review your next free report.

The Federal Trade Commission has put together a list of questions and answers concerning this new law and effect it will have on your credit report and your risk of identity theft. They can be helpful to you in determining your rights under law

It makes sense to check your reports regularly, as often as, on a monthly basis. This may seem a bit much to you, but just ask a person who has had their identity stolen how much hassle it is to take your life back. They will tell you it is well worth effort. Let’s face it, no one cares as much as you, about your credit record, and damage that identity theft could cause in your life.

(c)2005 David Wilding