Not So Free Credit Reports

4.21.10

You know those catchy FreeCreditReport.com commercials. For years we have tried to differentiate those guys from the federally supported AnnualCreditReport.com (which is actually free).

Now, it seems that the government has stepped in to protect its own cause. Recently, the Federal Trade Commission has begun requiring ‘Free’ credit report services to distinguish their separation from the truly free AnnualCreditReport.com. In response to the FTC rule changes, FreeCreditReport.com has begun to charge for their ‘Free’ reports. The cost? – $1.

But will the FTC buy it? The new promotion appears to sidestep new FTC rules that require companies that tout “free” reports to indicate that the only government-authorized site for free credit reports is AnnualCreditReport.com.

Although I enjoy the catchy tunes, I am glad that the FTC is stepping in to draw a clear distinction between their free service and the services that try to feed off of customer confusion. Remember, you can always find a link to the real thing in the ‘Helpful Links’ sidebar.