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FTC Cracks Down on "Free Credit Reports" That Just Aren't

Reblogger Michael Johnson
Real Estate Agent with Carolina One Real Estate

 

Original content by Eleanor Thorne NMLS 67179 Licensed in NC

I'm tired of that "F-R- Double E Spells FREE" credit report commercial!    Because what they are "hawkin' is NOT free!
Free Credit Reports Are Not FreeThankfully, on March 3, 2010 the Federal Trade Commission file a revision to the Free Annual File Disclosure Rule to address the abuses and deceptive advertising for Free Credit Reports.  This was part of the new Credit Card Accountability and Responsibility Act 2009.

The new disclosure is available now, but must be used after April 2, 2010, per the FTC ruling... however the Radio and Television Ads don't have to go off air until September 1, 2010 (although the advertisements must adhere to the interim disclosure in the Credit Card Accountability Act until then.)

"The pre-existing requirement to make a free annual credit report available to consumers applies to consumer reporting agencies that operate on a nationwide basis.  The new marketing requirements apply to parties that offer free credit reports. For purposes of the requirement, a "Free Credit Report" is a file disclosure prepared by or obtained from, directly or indirectly, from a nationwide consumer reporting agency that is represented, either expressly or impliedly, to be available to the consumer at no cost if the consumer purchases a product or service, or agrees to purchase a product or service subject to cancellation."

I think this is GREAT news for consumers who have been PAYING for what services they don't need!

If you are looking for credit repair from someone who cares about your situation, and will show you how to immediately, and over time imporve your score - please call Steve Thorne, Credit repair specialist 919-649-5058  also check out this site ... it's all about credit repair and dispute information!

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If you have a home anywhere in the Charleston Metro Area and would like to get more information about selling your home, please contact me for a free home evaluation. 

I also work with buyers.  If you are interested in more information about buying a home please contact me and I would be glad to meet with you or email you a list of homes.

 

Michael J. Johnson, Realtor, ABR

www.metrocharlestonhomes.com

843-817-5299

michaeljohnson@carolinaone.com

"Providing the Light to Guide You Home"

 

 

 

 

Craig Richardson
National Realty - McLean, VA

Michael, thanks for the post.  I've gotten sucked into these a few times.

Mar 11, 2010 02:00 AM
Mike Wilbur
Guild Mortgage Company and Oregon Homes For Heroes - Salem, OR

It is good to hear that they finally got caught on this.  I gues sif you call until 09/2010 being caught.

Mar 11, 2010 03:05 AM