California Law SB168 by Senator Debra Bowen

San Francisco Chronicle - June 11, 2002

New California Law Takes Aim at ID Theft

A new law will make a difference in your life, even if you don't live in California. SB168, a law passed in California in 2001 and sponsored by Senator Debra Bowen of Redondo Beach, makes an effort to control access to Social Security numbers and credit reports. While in theory it is only in effect for Californians, many insurance companies and credit companies will opt to create a single system that will work for everyone in the US. Many of the bills provisions go into effect on July 1, 2002.

In brief, here's what the bill covers. To read more details, go to our legislation section.

• prohibits the public printing or display of social security numbers.
• allows the public to "freeze" their credit report from anyone requesting it.
• clarifies how "fraud alerts" should work.