Pre-screened credit offers are generated based on your credit history and other financial information, allowing lenders to market their products to you before you express interest. To be clear, CrossFirst Bank does not sell your information to other lenders who then use it for advertising. But rather - the lenders obtain your information from one of the four main credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, Innovis, or TransUnion. Typically lenders ask the credit reporting agencies for a list of people who meet certain credit requirements, or may provide their own list to the credit agencies and ask which customers may qualify for a specific promo they are about to run. While these offers may be convenient if you’re looking for new credit, many consumers are unaware of the implications of receiving such solicitations. You have the option to opt out of receiving these types of offers. Opting out of these offers is not only a preventive measure against unwanted solicitations but also a proactive step toward protecting your financial future.

Benefits of Opting Out

  • Reduced Risk of Identity Theft: By limiting the number of lenders with access to your information, you decrease the likelihood of your personal details falling into the wrong hands in the event of a data breach. Also, many of these offers that are printed include a QR code or other customized application link that identity thieves may try to exploit if they steal your mail. Lowering the number of mailed offers you receive greatly lowers the risk of mail-related identify fraud.
  • Minimized Unwanted Solicitations: Opting out means fewer junk mail pieces cluttering your mailbox. This can reduce distractions and allow you to focus on more important financial matters, such as improving your credit score or planning investments.
  • Better Control Over Your Credit Profile: When you reduce the number of pre-screened offers you receive, you take a more active role in managing who has access to your credit information. This puts you in control of your financial narrative.

How to Opt Out


Opting out of pre-screened credit offers is a straightforward process. You’ll be asked to provide your full name, address, date of birth, and social security number. Here’s how you can do it:
  • Online Opt-Out: You can opt out online at the official website of the Consumer Credit Reporting Industry (https://www.optoutprescreen.com/). The electronic opt-out is only good for five years. To opt out permanently, you’ll have to mail a signed form.
  • Mail-in Request: If you would rather handle the process by mail, you can send in requests to the major credit bureaus—Experian, Equifax, Innovis, and TransUnion. Mailed opt-out is required to opt out permanently. If you wish to use this method, visit https://www.optoutprescreen.com/ and choose the mail option at the bottom for instructions.
  • Phone Opt-Out:  You can call the Consumer Credit Reporting Industry (888) 567-8688 to opt out via phone. This method is convenient if you prefer to speak with a representative. To opt out permanently you’ll still need to sign a form and mail it in, which the representative can help you with.

Conclusion


Choosing to opt out of pre-screened credit offers is a smart financial decision that safeguards your personal information and provides peace of mind. As you manage your financial resources and plan for the future, remember that control over your credit profile is a vital part of a secure financial strategy.