Which way is safest to retrieve your free Annual Credit Report? If I go online I have to enter my SS# which ?
by admin ~ February 26th, 2006 . Filed under: Credit .
shows directly on the form but they say it is encrypted - does that encryption happen upon transmission? I did not submit it because my SS# was right before me and again wasn’t sure what/when the encryption takes place.
If I download a request form, fill it out and mail it, I worry that it could fall into the wrong hands in transit with all my information right smack in front of whomever is dishonest enough to intercept it.
Then there’s the Automated Phone Service for requests that will result in receiving the reports in the mail in 2-4 weeks.
Please help me with your advice. I was hoping I could do this through my bank where I know for sure their online security is more sophisticated, but they say they can only do that if I am involved in a mortgage or other business transaction with the bank. HELP?! Thanks in advice for anyone’s professional guidance.
So far helpful answers, but I also had asked if it was normal to see my SS# stay visible on form until I finish filling out all my information? In other words, YES or NO, does my SS# get encrypted upon transmission?? Thanks again !!
Delia Leho
February 27th, 2006 at 11:34 am
The sites are encrypted and *** safe as anywhere else. The bureau’s need the SS number to verify you are who you say you are (you don’t want any Tom, **** or Jane to get your credit report).
Best way to get hte report is to go to
March 1st, 2006 at 10:34 am
I prefer the 800 numbers.
It only adds a couple of more days.
Safest method for me, since I’m using my neighbors WIFI
March 2nd, 2006 at 1:49 am
I have done it with annualcreditreport.com both on-line and via the automated phone service. Never a problem either way. I’m inclined to think that on-line is actually safer because you don’t have to rely on the incompetent U.S. Postal Service.
March 2nd, 2006 at 6:27 pm
annualcreditreport.com very safe and government sponsored. They need the ssn to pull your credit report and verify that it is you, will also ask you a few questions that only you would know the answer to. Phone is ok for obtaining information but it is always possible that there is a tap of some sort on the phone and they can record the keystrokes to get your ssn. Mail can always be intercepted. Safest online in my opnion.
March 4th, 2006 at 7:40 am
Go to annualcreditreport.com. They need your SS# in order to identify you and make sure you get the right report. As for having it sent through the mail, I’m not a big fan of that because sometimes the credit bureaus transpose your old addresses and your current one, and your report ends up being sent to an old address. That happened to me, and it’s not a good feeling knowing some stranger has your credit report.
Online is your best bet… it’s safer and faster. Once you get your report online, print it out and then save it as a PDF (usually an option in your print menu) so you have an electronic copy.