Are free credit reports online scams? The short answer is that some are and some aren’t. The longer answer is that you have to be very careful even when using the more reputable services.

The true scams will take your money and give you nothing in return. They may steal your identity. The more subtle scams are designed to be confusing and will try to get you to sign up for a service that does cost money.

To avoid giving out your information to unsavory sources or getting charged for a service you didn’t want, it is important to research the website that you choose to use. Sites which have commercials running on the television are a good place to start because they will be under more scrutiny from consumer groups.

Reading reviews on these sites is essential. You should read numerous reviews and focus on those that are balanced and provide constructive criticism. Completely positive reviews are often written by the company itself or others who have an interest in you signing up for the service. If you find a review that paints a realistically positive portrait, don’t stop there. Look for multiple reviews to get the best idea of what you’re facing.

You should avoid websites with overwhelmingly negative reviews. If you can’t find more than a few, don’t got to that one either. Don’t pay attention to reviews listed on the website itself, those are handpicked to be favorable and sometimes fabricated. Look for positive reviews from well known reliable consumer groups, those will be your best bets.

The use of common sense is essential when giving out your information online. It is important to remember that the information needed to acquire a credit report is the same as the information needed to steal your identity.