Databases That Collect Personal Information - Ask Sid - AARP Bulletin

Is My Whole Life Online

Little-known databases have the inside scoop on you

Q. I know that the big credit bureaus have files on me that I can get for free at . But I've heard there are lots of specialty databases that also collect personal information. Can I see what's in them? A. Generally, you can. It's a good idea to have a look at these little-known databases once a year. Most will provide you with one free report annually, as required by federal law. See also:

Related

You'll be able to spot signs of , but also to satisfy your curiosity about what's on file about you — and correct it if it's wrong. details public-record data about you, such as property ownership, criminal history, liens and bankruptcies. Also available are reports on your and histories. (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange) lists home and auto insurance claims filed under your name over the past seven years. Insurers use these reports to decide whether to issue you a policy and to set your rate. It's smart to look at yours if you're shopping for a new policy — or wondering why you were denied one. (Medical Information Bureau) gives coded listings of your reported medical conditions and tests, as well as hazardous hobbies. The reports figure in insurers' decisions on whether to issue medical, long-term care and other health-related policies. Get your report by calling 1-866-692-6901 toll-free. Also contact your health insurer for an annual statement of your claims and treatments. Protect yourself from medical identity theft by such as guarding your insurance card. and collect information on overdrawn or otherwise mismanaged checking accounts. Their reports are especially useful if you've been denied a bank account. Your state's can give you a copy of your driving record (you'll need to pay a fee). It typically lays out violations, your address and physical description — and any applications for a license that have been made in your name, a potential clue to identity theft. For prescription records for the past five years, including dosages, refills and names of prescribers, you can call (1-877-211-4816) and Medpoint (1-888-206-0335) toll-free. When requesting records from each of these services, be prepared to provide proof of identity, perhaps including a photocopy of your driver's license, canceled checks and other requested information. Not every source will have complete information on you — or even any. But if you find something fishy, immediately contact the report provider to resolve it. Also of interest:
Sid Kirchheimer writes about consumer and health issues. Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures

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