Training Example: Experian – Review the Data, Give Your Score & Compare to the Real AI Evaluation

[H1] Reach your credit and money goals
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Get a credit report & FICO® Score
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See No Ding Decline™ credit cards
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[H2] Get your free credit report and FICO® Score*
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[H2] Apply with confidence with No Ding Decline
Get matched to credit cards that won’t ding your credit scores if you are not approved.⊛See your card matches
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[H2] Open a digital checking account that helps build creditø
Introducing the digital checking account designed by credit experts. You could raise your credit scores just for paying bills like rent, internet and utilitiesø. Plus, enjoy no monthly fees¶ and earn a $50 bonus for setting up direct deposit‡.Get digital checking
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[H2] Say hi to your Big Financial Friend
As your BFF, we’ll help you manage your money on the go, send real-time credit alerts straight to your phone, and a lot more.Explore the Experian appScan to download the app
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[H2] How can we help?
Manage your credit basics with these free tools.
[H3] Security freeze
Freeze or unfreeze your Experian credit file.
[H3] Disputes
Correct inaccurate info in your Experian credit file.
[H3] Fraud alert
Add or remove a fraud alert on your Experian credit file.See all credit support

[H1] Freeze your credit file for free
A security freeze, often known as a credit freeze, limits access to your Experian credit report—helping protect you against identity theft.
[H2] Manage your freeze for free
New to Experian? Sign up to place a freeze.Create a free account
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[H3] Already have an account?
Sign in to manage your freeze.Sign inManage your freeze for freeSign inGet started
[H2] How to freeze or unfreeze your Experian credit file
[H3] 1Sign up for a free Experian account
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[H3] 2Place a freeze to limit access to your Experian credit file
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[H3] 3Unfreeze or schedule a thaw any time and get alerts when your freeze changes
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[H2] Security freeze FAQs
[H3] How long does a security freeze last?
A security freeze will remain on your credit file until you remove it.
[H3] Do you need a PIN to manage a security freeze?
You no longer need a PIN to manage your credit freeze with Experian. All you need is a free Experian account to manage your freeze.
[H3] Can I freeze a minor’s credit file?
Parents and guardians can freeze the credit file of their children under the age of 16. You can request a minor’s credit report, fraud alert or security freeze by mail.
[H3] How can I unfreeze my credit file?
You can permanently remove/lift a security freeze on your credit file with one click or schedule an unfreeze for a specified time period.
[H3] How long does it take to place or remove a security freeze?
You can freeze and unfreeze your Experian credit file in real time using our online service.
[H3] How do I check to see if my Experian credit report is frozen?
By signing up for a free account, you can view your credit freeze status and take action.
[H2] Frequently asked questions
[H3] How does an Experian security freeze work?
A security freeze limits access to your Experian credit report without your permission. Freezing your credit can help protect against identity theft and fraud. Having a freeze on your credit report will not affect your credit scores, but it may prevent your credit report from being accessed until you unfreeze your credit report or credit file. When you freeze your credit, you are still able to submit a loan or credit application to a potential lender, however the lender will be unable to pull your credit file to assess your creditworthiness and make a decision on your application. If you would like for the lender to assess your credit, simply unfreeze your credit file or schedule a thaw in advance for the dates you plan to process a credit application.Freezing or unfreezing your credit report online with Experian is done in real time. You can add or remove a freeze and schedule an unfreeze. When unfreezing your credit report, you have two options. You can permanently remove a freeze until you decide to freeze it again. Alternatively, you can schedule a thaw while your credit report is already frozen, where you can specify the start and end date. This makes it convenient when you know you will need to apply for credit, such as when you are in the market to get a new car loan.Every time you place a freeze, remove a freeze, schedule a thaw or cancel a scheduled unfreeze, you will be alerted of updates so you have the confidence that your Experian credit report is secured. Alerts can be sent via email.
[H3] Can a security freeze block a credit application I made?
Yes, a security freeze can limit access to your credit, even if it was authorized by you. If you know you are going to apply for new credit, you can plan ahead and unfreeze or schedule an unfreeze, before you apply.
[H3] Who has access to my frozen credit report?
A security freeze will prevent most credit inquiries but there are still a few exceptions where someone can still access your Experian credit report:You can still access and view your own reportYour current lenders and card issuers that use credit checks in their account management processesLandlords and rental agencies that are screening you as a potential new tenantDebt collectors attempting to obtain a paymentCredit card issuers that have prescreened you for credit offersPotential employers that you have authorized to conduct background checksChild support agenciesGovernment agents executing court orders or warrants
[H3] When should I freeze my Experian credit report?
You should request a credit freeze immediately after you’ve been a victim of identity theft or if you think your personal information has been accessed, perhaps in a data breach. Requesting a credit freeze will be important if your Social Security number may have been accessed.While a credit freeze might be necessary in some instances, there are times when a fraud alert may be appropriate. A fraud alert lets potential lenders know that your personal information has been compromised and that someone may be trying to apply for credit in your name fraudulently. A fraud alert will not prevent a lender from accessing your credit, but requests the lender to verify your identity before granting you credit. When a fraud alert is requested, the other two credit bureaus (Equifax and TransUnion) are notified and fraud alerts are added to your credit reports with the 3 major credit reporting bureaus. You may add an initial fraud alert which remains on your credit file for 1 year. If you have been a victim of identity theft, you may add an extended fraud alert which requires proof of identity theft and protects victims for 7 years.
[H3] How to freeze your credit report with all 3 credit bureaus
If you place a security freeze on your Experian credit report, it is not automatically shared with other credit reporting agencies. To freeze your other credit reports, you will need to contact Equifax® and TransUnion® separately.
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Online: websiteMail: Equifax Information Services LLC, PO Box 105788, Atlanta, GA 30348-5788Phone: 1-888-378-4329
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Online: websiteMail: TransUnion, PO Box 160, Woodlyn, PA 19094Phone: 1-800-916-8800
[H3] How to freeze or unfreeze your Experian credit report by phone or mail
Experian’s online service is the easiest and quickest way to manage your credit freeze. If you cannot access our online service, you can contact us by:
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MailIf you would like to request a security freeze with Experian by mail you can write to:Experian Security Freeze P.O. Box 9554 Allen, TX 75013Written requests should include the following information:Your full nameSocial Security numberComplete addresses for the past two yearsDate of birthA government issued identification card, such as a driver’s licenseCopy of a utility bill or bank statementEnsure that each copy is legible and displays your name, current mailing address and issue date. Updating your security freeze or unfreeze will take up to 3 days upon receiving your mailed request.
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PhoneYou can also contact us by phone to add or remove a security freeze.1-888-EXPERIAN (1-888-397-3742)
[H3] Credit freeze vs. Experian CreditLock vs. fraud alert
A security freeze and Experian CreditLock will both limit access to your Experian credit report, while a fraud alert requests creditors to verify your identity before granting credit.Security FreezeExperian CreditLockFraud AlertCostFreeWhen to useWhen you are or suspect you are a victim of identity theft and to help prevent identity theftAre credit applications blocked?Yes, credit inquiries for new credit applications are blocked on your Experian credit fileShared with other bureaus?No, you have to initiate a freeze at each bureauHow long it lastsPermanent, until you unfreezeCan you remove?Yes, you can easily freeze, remove or schedule a removal onlineDo you get alerts for attempted inquiries?No, but you can receive alerts when something changes with your freeze statusCostIncluded in a paid membershipWhen to useWhen you are concerned about identity theft and want the ability to easily lock and unlock your Experian credit fileAre credit applications blocked?YesShared with other bureaus?NoHow long it lastsPermanent, until you unlock or cancel your paid subscriptionCan you remove?Yes, you can easily lock, unlock or schedule an unlock onlineDo you get alerts for attempted inquiries?Yes, you can get mobile and/or email alerts for any suspicious inquiries when your credit report is lockedCostFreeWhen to useWhen you are or suspect you are a victim of identity theft and you plan to use credit within the next months or yearsAre credit applications blocked?No, creditors are instructed to verify your identity before processing credit or loan applications made in your nameShared with other bureaus?Yes, a fraud alert placed at any credit bureau is shared with the othersHow long it lasts1 year for a fraud alert; 7-year extended alert availableCan you remove?Yes, you can mail or upload your request onlineDo you get alerts for attempted inquiries?Possibly: Some creditors may have automated approval systems to handle identity-confirmation and some may contact you to complete an application in your name, but all creditors are instructed to verify your identity before processing
[H3] How to protect yourself from identity theft
The first step in protecting yourself from identity theft is learning how it occurs. From there, you can start taking steps to limit your exposure. There’s no way to prevent identity theft entirely, but you can make it harder for criminals to gain access to your information and accounts.
[H2] Learn more about protecting your credit
[H3] How to Request a Security Freeze for a Minor Child’s Credit Report
4 min • Nov 11, 2023Kids
[H3] How to Check if My Credit Report Is Frozen
3 min • Sep 4, 2025Credit Advice
[H3] Can I Apply for Credit if My Credit Report Is Frozen?
3 min • Nov 2, 2021Security Freeze
[H3] How Long Does It Take to Thaw Frozen Credit?
2 min • Jan 8, 2021Security Freeze
[H3] Are There Any Downsides to Freezing Your Credit?
3 min • Oct 31, 2020Security Freeze
[H3] How to Freeze Your Credit at All 3 Credit Bureaus
7 min • Sep 22, 2025Security Freeze

[H1] Dispute online
[H2] Correct inaccuracies on your Experian credit file for free.
[H2] Manage your dispute for free
New to Experian? Sign up to start a new dispute.Create a free account
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[H3] Already have an account?
Sign in to manage your dispute.Sign inAdditional resourcesHow to disputeDenied creditBusiness credit report disputes
[H2] Disputing credit information online with Experian
[H3] 1Sign up for a free Experian account
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[H3] 2Prepare and submit your dispute
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[H3] 3Track your dispute status and get alerts
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[H2] Frequently asked questions
[H3] Can I dispute an item more than once?
If you receive your dispute results and don't agree with them, you have a few options:Contact the source of the informationYour best next step is to contact the data furnisher that originally provided the information to Experian. This is usually the creditor, lender or financial institution that provided the loan or credit initially, but could also be a collection agency or office of the government. You can find contact information for every data furnisher that provides information on your credit report by viewing your credit report.Add a statement of disputeA statement of dispute allows you to explain why you believe the information is inaccurate or incomplete. The statement will appear on your Experian credit report whenever it's accessed or requested by a potential lender or creditor, so they may ask you for more details or documentation as part of their review or application process. To add a statement of dispute, go to the Dispute Center, choose the item in dispute, and select "Add a Statement" from the menu of dispute reasons.Dispute again with relevant informationIf you have additional relevant information to substantiate your claim, you can submit a new dispute with the additional documentation in the Dispute Center. Disputes with additional relevant information can also be submitted by mail to Experian.
[H3] How do I upload my documents?
If you are disputing online: Experian's Online Dispute Center lets you easily add any required or pertinent documentation to a dispute. You can add documentation online when logged in on your computer or mobile device.If you are disputing by mail: Please send copies (not originals) of any requested documentation, such as a utility bill or government-issued identification card. Experian cannot return copies from your mailed dispute request. Access the disputes form here and send your documents to:
[H4] Mail to:
Experian Dispute by Mail P.O. Box 4500 Allen, TX 75013
[H3] How do I file a dispute with the other credit bureaus?
If you'd like to dispute information on your TransUnion or Equifax credit reports, please contact these bureaus directly.
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Equifax Information Services LLCOnline: Equifax Online DisputesMail: P.O. Box 740256, Atlanta, GA 30374
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TransUnion Consumer SolutionsOnline: TransUnion Online DisputesMail: P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19022-2000
[H3] When will I find out my dispute results?
Generally, a dispute should be resolved within 30 days with Experian's online dispute. We'll provide updates throughout the process and upon its completion.
[H3] Does filing a dispute affect my credit?
Filing a dispute has no impact on your credit scores, but if the dispute is accepted and information on your credit file changes, it might. It depends on what you are disputing and the outcome of the dispute.
[H3] Can information from my credit report be removed?
If you believe the information in your Experian credit file is inaccurate, Experian will look into it and correct or remove any inaccurate information or information that cannot be verified.Accurate information cannot be deleted, so if you were late on a payment, that will remain on your report. Past issues or mistakes will come off your credit report after a certain amount of time depending on what the item is, and their impact to your credit scores will lessen over time.
[H3] How long will an item remain on my credit report?
Your Experian credit report includes information reported by creditors and lenders as well as public records, such as bankruptcies. Potentially negative information, such as missed payments, remain on a personal credit report for 7 years from the original missed payment. The exceptions are Chapters 7, 11 and 12 bankruptcies, which remain for 10 years.Positive information may remain on a report indefinitely. Paid closed accounts generally display for 10 years. Requests for your credit history, also known as hard inquiries, remain on your personal credit report for 25 months (although these only impact your FICO® Score* powered by Experian data for one year).
[H3] How long will the accounts I included in my bankruptcy remain on my credit report?
Any account included in a bankruptcy remains on your Experian credit file for a maximum of 7 years from the date the bankruptcy was filed. The bankruptcy itself, listed in the public record information section of a credit report, remains for either 7 years from the filing date if it was a Chapter 13 or 10 years from the filing date if it was a Chapter 7, 11 or 12.
[H3] Why does a collection account appear on my credit report if I paid it?
When your creditor turns over a seriously past-due account to a collection company, your credit report will show the status of the account as "collection." If you pay the account, the status will be "paid collection." The collection account will be removed 7 years from the date of the first late payment on the original account.
[H3] I made a payment that my credit report does not show. Why is this?
Creditors and other entities (also referred to as data furnishers) send us updated payment information routinely, but that does not guarantee that your most recent payment will show on your Experian credit file immediately. We update our records as soon as we receive the information from the data furnisher.
[H3] If I do not owe a balance, why is my credit card not listed as "paid" on my credit report?
Revolving lines of credit, retail charge cards and bank credit card accounts are open-ended lines of credit. This doesn't mean that you still owe a balance; it only means that you have credit available. A "current" status tells creditors that the account is not past due. The report also tells creditors whether the account carries a balance.
[H3] Why is there an inquiry on my credit report from a company with which I didn’t apply for credit?
By federal law, your Experian credit file must list all parties that have requested your information. According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, businesses with a permissible purpose may review your credit information. Some examples of entities with permissible purpose are:Your current creditors who are monitoring your accountsOther creditors that want to offer you pre-approved creditAn employer that wishes to extend an offer of employmentA potential investor assessing the risk of a current credit obligationSoft inquiries may be initiated by others, such as companies making promotional offers of credit or your lender conducting periodic reviews of your existing credit accounts. Soft inquiries also occur when you check your own credit report or when you use credit monitoring services from companies like Experian. These inquiries do not impact your credit scores.Hard inquiries are generally related to applications for new credit, and can affect your credit scores. They can stay on your credit report for up to two years, but they shouldn't affect your credit scores for more than a year. In most cases, inquiries cease to have any significant impact on scores after just a few months.
[H3] Why does an account that belongs to my ex-spouse appear on my credit report?
A divorce decree does not affect your contracts with creditors. You will need to negotiate repayment with each one. Learn more on divorce and how it affects your credit.
[H3] What information on my credit report will hurt me if I apply for credit?
These statuses, either open or paid, are considered potentially negative:Missed paymentsAccounts included in bankruptciesPublic record itemsCollection accountsCreditor-received deedForeclosure proceedings startedForeclosedClaim filed with governmentInsurance claim filedPaid by creditorPaid in settlementCreditor cannot locate individualRepossessionDefaulted on contractVoluntarily surrenderedCharge-off
[H2] Learn more about Disputes
[H3] How to Remove Late Payments From Your Credit Report
6 min • Sep 13, 2024Late Payment
[H3] When to Dispute Credit Report Information
6 min • Mar 27, 2021Dispute
[H3] How to Dispute Credit Report Information
8 min • Dec 11, 2025Dispute
[H3] How Credit Report Disputes Affect Your Credit
5 min • Feb 16, 2023Dispute
[H3] How to Check Your Credit Report and File Disputes
4 min • May 22, 2023Credit Advice
[H3] How Long Do Credit Report Disputes Take?
4 min • Mar 28, 2021Dispute

[H1] Fraud Alert
Fraud alerts notify creditors to verify your identity before extending credit in case someone is using your information without your consent.
[H2] Manage your fraud alert for free
New to Experian? Sign up.Create a free accountAlready have an account? Sign inManage your fraud alertSign inGet started
[H2] How to add a fraud alert to your Experian credit file
[H3] 1Create a free account or sign in
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[H3] 2Place a fraud alert on your credit file
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[H3] 3Experian notifies the other bureaus
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[H2] How a fraud alert works
[H3] How long does it take to place a fraud alert?
You can add an initial and active duty alert on your Experian credit file online in real-time. Extended fraud alerts require proof of identity theft and we’ll review your proof upon receiving documents by mail or upload.
[H3] When do fraud alerts expire?
Initial and active duty alerts expire after 12 months and extended alerts last for seven years. You have the right to add a new alert after one expires.
[H3] How can I remove a fraud alert?
You can remove a fraud alert from your Experian credit file online. To remove fraud alerts from Equifax® and TransUnion®, you’ll need to contact each separately.
[H3] How can you place a fraud alert for a minor?
Parents and guardians can place a fraud alert on the credit file of their children under the age of 16. You can request a minor’s credit report, fraud alert or security freeze by mail.
[H2] Frequently asked questions
[H3] How does an Experian fraud alert work?
A fraud alert is a notification that appears in your credit file instructing lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before processing credit card or loan applications in order to prevent identity thieves and other criminals from securing loans or opening credit accounts in your name.Do you have to place a fraud alert with each credit bureau?Requesting a fraud alert at any one of the credit bureaus automatically applies alerts to your credit files at all three bureaus. Each fraud alert deactivates itself on a preset expiration date. You can remove a fraud alert, but you must contact each credit bureau individually. While the bureaus notify one another when an alert is activated, they do not when one is removed.
[IMG: Logo Equifax]
Online: websiteMail: P.O. Box 740256 Atlanta, GA 30374Phone: 1-800-685-1111
[IMG: Logo Transunion]
Online: websiteMail: P.O. Box 2000 Chester, PA 19016Phone: 1-888-909-8872Can you change your phone number for an existing fraud alert?Your fraud alert phone number may be used by lenders to verify your identity. If your phone number has changed, you can update it by clicking on "Manage alert" in the fraud alert center once you log into your Experian account.
[H3] What are the types of fraud alerts?
There are three types of fraud alerts, and you have the right to request any one that applies to you:Initial Fraud AlertExtended Fraud AlertActive Duty AlertCostFreeFreeFreeWhen to useYou suspect you’ve been or may become a victim of identity theft.When you are a victim of identity theft. You will need an FTC identity theft report or police report in order to place an extended fraud alert.You’re an active duty service member and want to protect your credit file.Duration1 year7 years1 year
[H3] Does a fraud alert affect your credit?
A fraud alert has no impact at all on the contents of your credit report, or on the credit scores derived from the data in your credit report. Therefore, it can neither help nor hurt your ability to qualify for a loan or credit card.A fraud alert can affect your ability to get instant approval for credit card or in-store credit offers you find online or at retail outlets. The automated approval systems used for these offers may not be equipped to handle the identity confirmation steps fraud alerts require. So while you cannot be disqualified for a credit offer due to a fraud alert, you may have to contact retailer reps by phone or in person to complete your application.
[H3] When should you place a fraud alert?
You may place a fraud alert if you’re worried about potential misuse of your personal information: for example, if you suspect your Social Security number has been stolen or exposed in a data breach, or if you’ll be on a military assignment and unlikely to be able to closely monitor your credit activity. A fraud alert can prevent unauthorized access to your credit files without significantly hindering authorized access to them. It’s easy to remove fraud alerts if you find out your data wasn’t compromised, or to just let them lapse if you find you aren’t getting any indication that fraudsters are applying for credit in your name.If you’re certain your data has been compromised, you may seek an extended fraud victim alert, which lasts for seven years. Alternatively, you could freeze your credit. A security freeze, also known as a credit freeze, is a more extreme measure—it limits access to your credit report unless you remove it or authorize temporary access to your files, and it never expires unless you remove it. A credit freeze can be inconvenient if you’re actively applying for new loans or credit cards, but it can be useful if you don’t plan on getting new credit, and don’t want to worry about renewing a fraud alert once it’s expired.
[H3] How to file an identity theft report?
To request an extended fraud alert from Experian, you will need a copy of an identity theft report that you filed with a law enforcement agency, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local police. The FTC has a designated identity theft website with step-by-step instructions to help identity theft victims. You can report identity theft or follow up on specific types of data theft situations, such as data breach, tax fraud or stolen information.Alternatively, or in addition to, the FTC identity theft report, you may make a report of identity theft to your local police department. Making a report to your local police may be especially helpful if:You can identify the person who stole your identity or used it fraudulently;You have specific information that can aid a police investigation;Your identity was used fraudulently in an encounter with the police, like a traffic stop; orA creditor or other entity requires you to file a police report.Learn about your rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, including your state’s identity theft notice of rights.
[H3] How to place or remove your Experian fraud alert by phone or mail
Experian’s online service is a convenient way to manage your fraud alert. If you cannot access our online service, you can contact us by:
[IMG: Experian logo]
MailIf you would like to request a fraud alert with Experian by mail, you can write to:ExperianP.O. Box 9554Allen, TX 75013Written requests should include the following information:Your full nameSocial Security numberComplete addresses for the past two yearsDate of birthA government issued identification card, such as a driver’s licenseCopy of a utility bill or bank statementEnsure that each copy is legible and displays your name, current mailing address and issue date.
[IMG: Experian logo]
PhoneYou can also contact us by phone to add or remove a fraud alert.1-888-EXPERIAN (1-888-397-3742)
[H3] Fraud alert vs. Experian CreditLock vs. Credit freeze
A security freeze and Experian CreditLock will both limit access to your Experian credit report, while a fraud alert requests creditors to verify your identity before granting credit.Fraud AlertExperian CreditLockSecurity FreezeCostFree, as a consumer right granted by the Fair Credit Report Act (FCRA)Included in a paid membershipFree, as a consumer right granted by the Fair Credit Report Act (FCRA)When to useWhen you are or suspect you are or may become a victim of identity theft and plan to use credit in the next months or yearsWhen you are concerned about identity theft and want the ability to easily lock and unlock your Experian credit fileWhen you are or suspect you are a victim of identity theftAre credit applications blocked?No, creditors are instructed to verify your identity before processing credit or loan applications made in your nameYesYes, credit inquiries for new credit applications are blocked on your Experian credit fileShared with other bureaus?Yes, a fraud alert placed at any credit bureau is shared with the othersNoNo, you have to initiate a freeze at each bureauHow long it lasts1 year for an initial or active duty alert and 7 years for an extended fraud alertPermanent, until you unlock or cancel your paid subscriptionPermanent, until you unfreezeCan you remove?Yes, you can easily remove a fraud alert from your Experian credit file online, by phone or mail. To remove it from Equifax® and TransUnion®, you’ll need to contact each separatelyYes, you can easily lock, unlock or schedule an unlock onlineYes, you can easily freeze, remove or schedule a removal online, by phone or mailDo you get alerts for attempted inquiries?Possibly. Some creditors may have automated approval systems to handle identity confirmation and some may contact you to complete an application in your name, but all creditors are instructed to verify your identity before processingYes, you can get mobile and/or email alerts for any suspicious inquiries when your credit report is lockedNo, but you can receive alerts when something changes with your freeze status
[H3] How do you manage preferences for pre-screened offers?
You can opt in or out  of pre-screened offers, which include firm offers from lenders for credit cards, loans or insurance that aren’t initiated by you at any time.As a precaution, when you add an initial fraud alert with Experian, we will remove your name and address from pre-screened offer lists for 6 months. We’re required by law to remove your name and address from pre-screened offer mailing lists when you add an active duty alert for 2 years or extended fraud alert for 5 years.Pre-screened firm offers are different from prequalified offers. If you consented to receive personalized credit card, loan or insurance offers matched to your credit (“Prequalified offers”), such as through Experian Marketplace, you will continue to receive those offers. Opting out of pre-screened offers will not change your Experian.com marketing email preferences.
[H3] How else can you protect your identity and credit?
The first step in protecting yourself from identity theft is learning how it occurs. From there, you can start taking steps to limit your exposure. There’s no way to prevent identity theft entirely, but you can make it harder for criminals to gain access to your information and accounts.
[H3] Summary of rights for identity theft victims
Para información en español, visite www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore o escribe a la Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1700 G Street N.W., Washington, DC 20552.Remedying the Effects of Identity TheftYou are receiving this information because you have notified a consumer reporting agency that you believe that you are a victim of identity theft. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your name, Social Security number, date of birth, or other identifying information, without authority, to commit fraud. For example, someone may have committed identity theft by using your personal information to open a credit card account or get a loan in your name. For more information, www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore or write to: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1700 G Street N.W., Washington, DC 20552.The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) gives you specific rights when you are, or believe that you are, the victim of identity theft. Here is a brief summary of the rights designed to help you recover from identity theft.You have the right to ask that nationwide consumer reporting agencies place “fraud alerts” in your file to let potential creditors and others know that you may be a victim of identity theft. A fraud alert can make it more difficult for someone to get credit in your name because it tells creditors to follow certain procedures to protect you. It also may delay your ability to obtain credit. You may place a fraud alert in your file by calling just one of the three nationwide consumer reporting agencies. As soon as that agency processes your fraud alert, it will notify the other two, which then also must place fraud alerts in your file.Equifax: 1-800-525-6285; www.equifax.comExperian: 1-888-397-3742; www.experian.comTransUnion: 1-800-680-7289; www.transunion.comAn initial fraud alert stays in your file for at least one year. An extended alert stays in your file for seven years. To place either of these alerts, a consumer reporting agency will require you to provide appropriate proof of your identity, which may include your Social Security number. If you ask for an extended alert, you will have to provide an identity theft report. An identity theft report includes a copy of a report you have filed with a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency, and additional information a consumer reporting agency may require you to submit. For more detailed information about the identity theft report, visit www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore.You have the right to free copies of the information in your file (your “file disclosure”). An initial fraud alert entitles you to a copy of all the information in your file at each of the three nationwide agencies, and an extended alert entitles you to two free file disclosures in a 12-month period following the placing of the alert. These additional disclosures may help you detect signs of fraud, for example, whether fraudulent accounts have been opened in your name or whether someone has reported a change in your address. Once a year, you also have the right to a free copy of the information in your file at any consumer reporting agency, if you believe it has inaccurate information due to fraud, such as identity theft. You also have the ability to obtain additional free file disclosures under other provisions of the FCRA. See www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore.You have the right to obtain documents relating to fraudulent transactions made or accounts opened using your personal information. A creditor or other business must give you copies of applications and other business records relating to transactions and accounts that resulted from the theft of your identity, if you ask for them in writing. A business may ask you for proof of your identity, a police report, and an affidavit before giving you the documents. It may also specify an address for you to send your request. Under certain circumstances a business can refuse to provide you with these documents. See www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore.You have the right to obtain information from a debt collector. If you ask, a debt collector must provide you with certain information about the debt you believe was incurred in your name by an