Security Freeze Law Takes Effect
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2006-07-24 16:11:01.546747-04:00
Beginning July 1, 2006, South Dakota residents who have their identity stolen can place a security freeze on their credit reports. AARP South Dakota supported the measure which passed during the 2006 Legislative Session.
A security freeze is a notice placed on a consumer's credit report at the request of the consumer. It prohibits the credit agency from releasing the consumer's information from a credit report to a third party without the consumer's authorization.
Under this measure only victims of identity theft can put a security freeze on their credit report. To do so, the victim must provide a valid police report to a consumer reporting agency and request the security freeze in writing by certified mail.
"While AARP supports the ability of anyone, not just victims of identity theft, to protect their most personal information, this is a good first step toward greater consumer protection in South Dakota," says State Director Sarah Jennings. "AARP believes all consumers should have the right to protect their sensitive information before they become victims, and AARP South Dakota will continue working toward stronger consumer protection measures."
Congress is currently considering similar legislation (H.R. 3997), which also allows only victims of identity theft to place security freezes on their credit reports. AARP supports amending the measure to allow any consumer to take preventative measures to protect themselves from identity theft.
Identity theft is one of the fastest growing white collar crimes. As many as 3 million Americans a year learn credit accounts have been falsely opened in their name.
Related Articles
- Identity Theft
Tips for protecting yourself against identity theft - Check your Credit Report
How to check your credit report
preview