Know your rights and the consequences of someone checking your credit without permission. You can sue a company or employer that performs an unauthorized credit check on you, and you are entitled to see your credit report. A copy of your credit file should be available to you.
You have the right of being protected against credit checks that are not authorized
Security freezes can be used to prevent unauthorised credit checks. This prevents credit applications from becoming approved unless the freeze is granted. This can also delay approval of new credit. The security freeze lasts for one year and can be used to prevent identity theft. It is important to use it properly. However, this process won't stop you from doing unauthorized credit checks.
You have the right and ability to sue your employer or company
NYC has a human rights law that prohibits employers from checking credit reports. The law doesn't prohibit employers from conducting background checks, or any other research. However, it does restrict them from using credit information to make hiring decisions. You have the right to sue your employer if they violate your rights.
You have a right to see your credit report
If you have been denied credit, you can request a free copy of your credit report. This right applies when an entity has taken adverse action against you based on your credit report, such as denying credit, terminating credit, or changing an insurance offer. You will be given the name and contact number of the credit bureau. Individuals on government assistance or unemployed can get free copies. This is because incorrect information can result in unfair or discriminatory treatment.
Employers can sue you for damages if they used your credit reports without your permission in order to hire employees. You may also be entitled to punitive damages. You should know that if you decide to sue, you must prove that you were harmed by unauthorized access.
You have the right request a copy to your credit report
Whether you have excellent credit or bad credit, you have the right to request a copy of your credit history from any of the three major credit bureaus. The credit bureaus must give you a copy of all information they have in their files when you request it. You also have the right of knowing the identity of anyone who received your report within the last year or so. Additionally, if you are denied for a loan or credit, the company must tell you the name the credit bureau denied you.
The credit information you have on your report can impact your buying power and job prospects. Credit bureaus sell credit information to companies for insurance and loan decisions. Some employers also use it to make hiring decisions. You can request a copy of your credit report, but you shouldn't do it unless you have a legitimate purpose. False pretenses could result in criminal and civil penalties.