(c) The term “investigative consumer report” means a consumer report in which information on a consumer's character, general reputation, personal characteristics, or mode of living is obtained through any means.
A consumer report may contain information such as a person's credit characteristics, rental history, or criminal history. These reports are covered by the FCRA.
The FTC does clarify that obtaining information from a former employer beyond “fact-checking” could constitute an interview and be considered an Investigative Consumer Report. This could include, but is not limited to, asking a candidate's former employer about: Discipline actions against the candidate.
If the information is to be used for an insurance transaction, the consumer must give consent to the user of the report or the information must be coded.
(c) The term “investigative consumer report” means a consumer report in which information on a consumer's character, general reputation, personal characteristics, or mode of living is obtained through any means.
Section 607(e) requires any person who obtains a consumer report for resale to take the following steps: Disclose the identity of the end-user to the source CRA. Identify to the source CRA each permissible purpose for which the report will be furnished to the end-user.
If communication does not fall within the definition of 'Consumer Report,' however, it will not be an 'Investigative Consumer Report. '” What's critical to the definition of an Investigative Consumer Report is that information must be obtained through a “personal interview.”
California Department of Consumer Affairs.
Filing a Complaint File a complaint online at .dca.ca or call 800.952. 5210 to have a complaint form mailed to you. California Attorney General's Office. File a complaint online at .
File a complaint with your local consumer protection office. Notify the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in your area about your problem. The BBB tries to resolve complaints against companies. Report scams and suspicious communications to the Federal Trade Commission.