The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau raised concerns in a bulletin that consumer reporting agencies may be holding free information from their customers. They have issued warning letters to six agencies that have made it too difficult for consumers to find their annual reports.
"The move marked the first time the CFPB has threatened to take action against such agencies, which collect information on checking account activity, gambling debts, employment history and medical bills," writes American Banker's Rachel Witkowski. Through the CFPB's search, they found some companies did not list toll-free numbers and made it difficult for consumers to request free reports.
The CFPB, created by the Dodd-Frank Act, has received complaints on consumer reporting agencies since October.
CFPB Director Richard Cordray said in a press release, "Today, the CFPB is reminding these companies that they must follow the law and provide consumers with easy access to their free annual report." He continued on to say if the CFPB has reason to believe any company is withholding consumers' information, they will take action.
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