At some point or another, each one of us has encountered an ad claiming: "Free credit report". 99% of time, there is nothing free at the other side of link. The FTC actually requires the big 3 credit agencies to provide a free credit report each year. But they have all managed to bury it so deep in their websites that its literally a treasure hunt to find the right website. If after having done all of that, you manage to get hold of your credit report, you would be then disappointed to know that your credit score is no where to be seen. Welcome to the world of subterfuge involving dishonest practices by companies and websites where they are all out to rip you off of your money to get something that they owe it you for free.
Lets start with a fun exercise. Someone told you, "Hey, you don't have to pay for your credit report. You can get it for free. The FTC mandates it". You go ahead excitedly and search for 'Free credit report'. Here's a screenshot of what you would see. Now tell me amongst all the results (sponsored & otherwise) which ones are actually free. Hint: There is only one
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