Credit Bureau Problems

Credit bureaus assign individuals a credit score to indicate whether or not they pose any potential credit risk. Credit scores typically range from 300 to 850, with higher numbers awarded to people with good credit. A low credit rating, caused by unpaid bills and credit late fees, can make it difficult for individuals to acquire a mortgage, business loan, auto loan or other form of financial assistance. You should always try to keep tabs on your credit score, as one error in your credit report could result in disastrous consequences for your financial future. And credit bureaus aren't immune to mistakes.

Errors

Up to 70 percent of consumer credit reports contain errors, according to CreditReport.com. The most common missteps include incorrect reporting of unpaid loans or debts, misfiling of credit card accounts, confusion over family members with similar names or accounts being opened without your consent. These simple errors can lead to many serious and ongoing problems when dealing with credit bureaus.

Fraud

Sometimes credit bureau problems aren't due to accidents but deliberate criminal activity. Once only associated with identity theft, credit fraud has become far more prevalent due to the increase of online transactions and online banking. Criminals may also simply swipe credit cards and run up hefty expenses before the transactions can be stopped. If left uncorrected, these fraudulent activities can destroy an otherwise healthy credit score and lead to countless problems when trying to deal with credit bureaus.

What to Do

If you suspect your credit report contains erroneous information, you'll need to contact the credit bureaus immediately to dispute the claims. Once the bureaus are aware of the problem, contact the responsible creditor to get written proof of the mistake and then present the documentation to the bureaus. Always keep a paper trail with copies and certified mail receipts for any mailed documents. Filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission will also help expedite the process, as the complaint will get forwarded to the three major credit bureaus. If problems persist and you're unable to resolve the issue on your own, you may need to hire an attorney to pursue the matter.

Prevention

Taking a few extra precautions may help you guard against credit fraud and avoid unwanted credit bureau problems. Review your monthly credit statements for any anomalies or unknown charges. Never carry important documents such as your Social Security card or birth certificate that could be used to steal your identity. Also, limit the number of credit cards you carry in case you ever lose your wallet or purse. Even the pre-approved credit offers you get in the mail can be used to perpetrate credit fraud. Shred all such offers to prevent them from falling into unscrupulous hands.