California Identity Theft Law Takes Effect
In 2001, Governor Gray Davis signed California Senate Bill 168, a measure that increases protections against identity theft. The bill was sponsored by Senator Deborah Bowen (D-Redondo Beach). On January 1, 2003, Californians will be able to place a "security freeze" on their credit reports that prevents credit bureaus from releasing their credit information. This provision attempts to address the practice of credit card companies that extend new credit accounts despite the fact that the consumer had recently reported an incident of credit fraud. Other protections, including the ability to place a "security alert" on the credit report and protections against misuse of the Social Security Number, took effect in July 2002.
Californians Get New Way To 'Freeze' Identity Thieves, Wall Street Journal, January 2, 2002.
Text of Senate Bill 168, California Senate Website.
Privacy Rights Clearinghouse Identity Theft Resource Page.
EPIC Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) Page.
