In early June, Gov. Owens signed CoPIRG-backed legislation that would allow Coloradans to freeze their credit reports. Once frozen, the credit reporting agency must have authorization by the consumer to issue the credit report to a lender. If the application has been made without the consumer’s awareness, the consumer is able to deny access to the account and prevent unauthorized transactions.

Identity theft is becoming increasingly common. According to the attorney general’s office, identity theft was the number one consumer crime in Colorado in 2003.

Personal information is a valuable commodity. Social Security numbers, medical records, and information on consumer buying patterns are often bought, sold or traded among banks, credit card companies, supermarkets, biotech companies and insurance companies.

“Consumers should have the right to control, access, correct and consent to the use of their personal information,” said Rex Wilmouth, CoPIRG state director. “Allowing Coloradans to freeze access to their credit reports is the single greatest protection against identity theft and loss of privacy.”