It is your right to know what your rights are and what your consequences might be if your credit card information is accessed by someone other than you. Unauthorized credit checks can be brought against an employer or company. You are also entitled to a copy of your credit reports. Also, you should know how to request a copy of credit reports.
You have the right to be protected against unauthorized credit checks
You can use security freezes to stop unauthorised credit checks. If you don't grant the security freeze, it will prevent new credit applications from being approved. This can also delay approval of new credit. A security freeze is good for protecting your identity. It can also be useful in preventing identity theft. However, it is best to be careful with this security freeze. This process will not stop all unauthorized credit checks.
You have the right of action against a company or employer
Employers cannot check your credit in NYC due to a NYC human rights law. While the law does not bar employers from doing background checks or doing other research, it does ban them from using your credit information for employment decisions. You have the right to sue your employer if they violate your rights.
You can access your credit report.
You have the right, under the law to access your credit reports for free if you are refused credit. This applies to any adverse action taken by an entity based on your credit history, including denying credit, terminating credit or changing an insurance deal. The entity must give you the name of its credit reporting bureau as well as a number to which you can get 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. It is important to know that you must prove that the unauthorized access caused you harm if you are suing.
You can request a copy your credit report.
No matter your credit score, good or bad, you have the right of requesting a copy of credit history from any of three major credit bureaus. If you ask for a copy, credit bureaus must provide you all information within their files at the time. In addition, you can request a copy of your credit reports. If you are denied a loan, or credit application, the company must provide the name of any credit bureau that denied you.
Your purchasing power, as well as your chances of getting a new job, can be affected by the information on your credit report. Credit bureaus sell credit information to companies for insurance and loan decisions. It is also used by some employers to help them make hiring decisions. A copy of your credit history can be requested, but only if you have a legitimate reason to do so. Obtaining a copy of your credit report under false pretenses can result in civil and criminal penalties.