There are limits on how consumer credit reporting agencies can use and share information that is gathered about you as a result of your request for a free consumer credit report. This information, commonly known as "personally identifiable information" because it is unique to you, can only be used to process your request, to update nationwide consumer credit reporting agency databases, to process transactions you requested at the same time as your request for a free annual consumer credit report, and to comply with applicable law.

If you learn that someone misused your personally identifiable information gathered in connection with a consumer credit report, you may complain to the FTC by telephone at: 202-FTC-HELP (202-382-4357)

Or write to the FTC at:
Federal Trade Commission
CRC-240
Washington, D.C. 20580

Click here for information about where to complain about a lender.