BRIEFS

     If you are looking for a way out of your credit problems, beware of so-called "credit repair" companies that falsely claim they can change or erase accurate negative information from your credit report.

      There are no quick or easy cures for a poor credit history, and accurate negative information in your credit report cannot be erased by companies advertising "credit repair" services. The only information which can be changed are incorrect items, or those which are beyond the seven-year reporting period for negative credit history or 10-year period for bankruptcy.

      If there are genuine mistakes or outdated information in your report, you can fix them yourself for free or a minimal cost.

      If you have a problem with a credit repair company or a credit-related scam, contact the Attorney General's Consumer Fraud Division at (800) 992-0900.

     This tip is presented by the Crime Prevention Detail of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Contact the Crime Prevention Detail at 229-3507 for more information.