Consumer complaint received 2024-04-10 00:00:00
Product: Credit reporting or other personal consumer reports — Credit reporting
Issue: Improper use of your report — Reporting company used your report improperly
Company: EQUIFAX, INC.
State: MO

Complaint narrative:
I am writing to bring to your attention a matter of concern regarding the reporting of my educational records, specifically the transaction history, to credit reporting agencies. This action by XXXX, is a clear violation of my rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act ( FERPA ) of 1974 and the Privacy Act of 1974.

FERPA, codified at 20 U.S. Code 1232g, protects the privacy of student education records. Under FERPA, educational institutions that receive federal funds are required to maintain the confidentiality of student records and can not disclose personally identifiable information without the student 's consent. Moreover, the Privacy Act of 1974 explicitly states that the term " record '' means any item, collection, or grouping of information about an individual that is maintained by an agency, including but not limited to his/her education, financial transactions, medical history, etc. Transaction history pertinent to educational loans or financial matters, falls squarely within the realm of protected information. As a student loan servicer/custodian of these records, XXXX is bound by FERPA regulations when handling my account information. 

I have reviewed my credit report from XXXX, Equifax and XXXX and noted that my account information, pertaining to my student loans serviced by your organization, has been reported to credit reporting agencies. This action appears to be a violation of my rights under both FERPA and the Privacy Act. I have a right to privacy and Per the Privacy Act of 1974 as a federally protected consumer I am now revoking any and all authorization I the consumer may have given you written, non written, verbal, and nonverbal per 5 U.S. Code 552a. Per the FCRA as a federally protected consumer I am now opting out of any and all authorization I the consumer may have given you written, non written, verbal, and non verbal per 15 USC 6802.

I am demanding that you cease reporting my account information to all credit reporting agencies, as required by law. Furthermore, I expect confirmation that my account information has been removed from Equifax, XXXX and XXXX and all other credit reporting agencies. 

Due to such negligence this issue necessitates the intervention of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. I am seeking not only accountability for XXXX 's actions but also compensation for the financial damages and emotional distress incurred due to their illegal reporting activities. I kindly request that the CFPB investigate this matter thoroughly and take appropriate actions to rectify the violations committed by XXXX Failure to comply with these legal obligations may result in further action to protect my rights under federal law. 

Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I anticipate your cooperation in resolving this issue in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations.

Company response to consumer: Closed with non-monetary relief