A new federal law gives consumers added protections against identity theft, including free credit reports and a national fraud-alert system. The measure also requires that receipts omit the last digits of credit cards.

Opponents of the bill said it pre-empts tougher state privacy laws that prevent businesses from sharing their customers’ financial information with other companies. The critics wanted lawmakers to drop a provision that stops states from setting separate

rules on how businesses use, share and report data on consumers.

Identity theft is a widespread problem affecting as many as 10 million Americans each year. It involves the fraudulent use of another person’s private information, credit cards and such, for personal gain.

Consumers can e-mail, call or write the three major credit bureaus for a free copy of their credit report and their credit score each year to help them understand why credit was denied or approved. The law also requires businesses to black out Social Security numbers and debit card numbers on receipts. Medical information must be coded on credit reports.

Consumers also will get one-call protection because it requires credit bureaus to share consumer information reporting identity theft. — The Washington Post

Tips to avoid ID theft
• Don’t keep a Social Security card or copy of it in your purse or wallet.
• Don’t use your birth date or other obvious number as the PIN for your bank or debit cards.
• Make sure you take your credit card receipts and carbons after you buy something.
• Limit the number of credit cards you carry.
• Know your account numbers and where to call to report a problem if your account information is lost or stolen.
— LexisNexis