Ask Sid: Free Credit Report Advertisements
By: Sid Kirchheimer | Source: AARP Bulletin Today | May 8, 2008
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GOT A QUESTION FOR SID?
Send queries about scams, deals and other consumer issues to AskSid@aarp.org. If you want a personal response, please include a telephone number or e-mail address. Because of the volume of mail received, Sid regrets that he can’t answer all questions.Q. Can I trust e-mails promising free credit reports?
A. Probably not. There’s only one legitimate entity that provides free yearly credit reports from the three reporting bureaus: www.annualcreditreport.com (1-877-322-8228 toll free). Your e-mails likely come from spammers out to steal your personal information or from companies that will provide a free report—if you enroll in a credit-monitoring service that can cost $120 or more a year. While the companies do provide a legitimate service, they often allow only a short trial period for the “free” report. If you don’t cancel in that time, your credit card could be charged.
Sid Kirchheimer is the author of Scam-Proof Your Life (AARP Books/Sterling).
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