You've probably seen the commercials on TV before, but FreeCreditReport.com has some catchy jingles that tout their free credit report. While the report is technically free, there are strings attached and if you're not careful, it could cost quite a bit for this "free" report.
The Federal Trade Commission has received complaints from consumers who thought they were ordering their free annual credit report, but instead paid hidden fees or agreed to unwanted services. The Fair Credit Reporting Act guarantees consumer access to a free credit report from each of the three nationwide reporting agencies – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion – every twelve months. With AnnualCreditReport.com, visitors have access to truly free credit reports, with no hidden fees or trial memberships. So, the FTC has decided to fight back. Earlier today the FTC launched their own parody videos that are similar to the ones you regularly see on TV, only this time they are talking about a true free credit report.
Check Out the Videos
If you are interested, the FTC has set up their own YouTube channel with clips of their credit report commercial along with a number of additional FTC videos. And for more information, the FTC has also set up a site with more information about the free reports along with the videos at http://www.ftc.gov/freereports.