Read this before you request free credit reports

by Center for Personal Finance editors

SAN DIEGO (6/29/06)--Wait--don't click just yet. Before you request your free credit report from each of the three main credit reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion), read this to avoid potential problems and pitfalls (Worldprivacyforum.org June 5).

The World Privacy Forum, a nonprofit, nonpartisan public interest research group, offers these tips:

Watch for imposters. Make sure you're on the right site if you want to retrieve your reports from the Internet. Use annualcreditreport.com. If you're on a site that asks you to pay for your credit report, you may be on an imposter. How can you tell? Look for the "s" in https://, which means it's a secure site.

Use a trusted computer. Don't use a library or public computer to request your free credit reports. Shared computers may inadvertently share your personal information with others.

Mask your SSN. If you order your free reports using the toll-free number (877-322-822), ask that only the last four digits of your Social Security number be displayed. Also, make sure the mailed report is sent to a secure mailbox.

Anticipate automated-phone problems. If you have a long or complex name or a strong accent, you may have trouble communicating your request. Consider ordering your free reports by mail by printing the request form from ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/credit/ycr_free_reports.htm. Fill out the form and mail it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.