In 2006 the Experian credit report I received reflected my request to opt out by saying "consumer is opt out" on the face of the report. When I made the request to be opt out I said in writing I wanted it permanent.
I did not request another Experian report until 2009. When I received it through annualcreditreport.com I discovered my report had been shared with companies offering me credit against my wishes. Also, my report no longer said "opt out".
I wrote a dispute and recieved a reply that avoided really discussing my complaint. It said in essence that companies that have a legitimate interest in receiving my report will receive it and these entries are visible for 2 years! None of them had a legitimate interest as I did not grant permission. Experian refused to place "opt out" on my report in 2009 even though I insisted they do.
I also explained I camp on the beach (live in Hawaii) and do not have a house (residential address). I wanted a security freeze as Hawaii is one of the states that allows this. I was told I needed to submit proof of residential address like a utility bill. So, they discriminate against what they call homeless people and refuse them to freeze their credit reports?
April I completed a form from each major credit bureau requesting a PERMANENT opt out. On the form it said the information would be shared with the other bureaus so no need to really fill out one form for each one. Then there was another form I sent to a company (have to look the name up) that claims to make sure you are opt out permanently. I had to do it online and print out a form. I mailed the form in.
Yesterday, Feb. 1, I obtained a new copy of my Experian report. It still does not have the "opt out" on the report. I read a comment on this site about someone who looked up the corporate counsel for Experian, who is a member of the California Bar, and suggested telephoning him to get results. I called 714 830 5502 and spoke to Cynthia, the secretary for the counsel. I asked her to have the counsel email me as it seems nothing I say is paid attention to.
And what is it with Experian not putting their address on their website? And not entering into disputes via mail?! Who ARE these people?
Is this a violation of the FCRA? Can I get money from Experian for this? How much?
Thank you.
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