Final answer:
Under the FCRA, a consumer can get a free copy of their credit report if they're a victim of identity theft, on public assistance, unemployed and job-seeking, or denied credit or employment based on their report. Additionally, each consumer is entitled to a free report annually.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), a consumer is entitled to receive a free copy of their credit report under specific circumstances. These circumstances include: if a consumer has been a victim of identity theft and places a fraud alert, if they are on public assistance, if they are unemployed and plan to look for a job within 60 days, or if they have been denied credit or insurance or employment based on their credit report within the last 60 days. Additionally, every consumer is eligible for one free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once every twelve months.
It's essential to only provide the minimum information requested by any source, ask why information is being collected, how it is going to be used, and who will have access to it. It is also important to monitor your credit history for red flags that indicate your identity has been compromised. These steps are vital in maintaining the security of your personal and financial information.