At Western Verify, we are committed to supporting survivors of human trafficking. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the final Regulation V rules regarding human trafficking (12 CFR 1022 & 1022.142), survivors may request that adverse information in their background report resulting from trafficking be blocked from disclosure.
We understand the sensitivities involved, and we aim to make this process as respectful, secure, and fast as possible.
How to Request a Block of Information
If you believe adverse items on your background report stemmed from your experience as a victim of trafficking, you may request that we block those items. To process your request, we need the following:
1. Proof of Identity
Provide either:
- A consumer file match: your full name (including suffix, if any), any previously used names, full Social Security Number (if available), and date of birth;
- Or alternative proof: copies of a government-issued ID (e.g. driver’s license, passport), utility bills in your name, or other documents that help confirm your identity.
- In some cases, we may ask you to answer verification questions (things only you would know) to further verify identity.
2. Victim-Determination Documentation
You must provide one of the following:
- A formal determination of trafficking from a federal, state, or tribal government entity;
- A court judgment or a document filed in court recognizing trafficking;
- A finding by a non-governmental organization or human trafficking task force (or affiliated victim service provider) authorized by government to make such determinations;
- A written self-attestation that you are a victim of trafficking, signed or certified by a government entity, court, or authorized representative.
3. Identification of Adverse Items to Block
You need to clearly identify which specific pieces of adverse information (e.g. convictions, judgments, financial defaults, etc.) you assert resulted from your trafficking experience and request that those items be blocked from disclosure. The more specific you are, the better we can evaluate and act.
4. Preferred Method of Contact
Indicate whether you prefer to be contacted via email or postal mail, and include your preferred contact address or email.
Submission Instructions
You may submit your request and supporting documents via one (or more) of the following methods:
- Mail (hard copy)
Western Verify
Attn: Human Trafficking Block Requests
489 W South Jordan Pkwy, Suite 200
South Jordan, UT 84095 - Email (electronic)
support@westernverify.com
What to Expect / Timeline
- Once we receive a valid request with the required documentation, we will notify you of receipt.
- We aim to block qualifying adverse items within 4 business days of receiving the request.
- If all required documentation is submitted within 25 days, the block may become permanent (or remain in place per FCRA rules).
- If we must rescind or decline a block, we will provide you a clear explanation.
- You (or your counsel/advocate) always have the right to dispute our decision or file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
Confidentiality & Non-Disclosure to Employers
Please note: In handling your request, Western Verify will not disclose to any client (employer or third party) that your request is tied to human trafficking. The fact of your victim status will remain confidential, and any blocked items will not appear in future disclosures we make to clients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What kind of items can be blocked?
Only adverse items (e.g. criminal records, civil judgments, financial delinquencies) that you convincingly tie to your trafficking experience may be considered. - What if I don’t have a formal determination of trafficking?
You may submit a self-attestation, but it must be signed or certified by an authorized government/court/entity or victim-service provider, per the FCRA rule. - What if the item is unrelated to trafficking?
Items not linked to your trafficking experience will not be eligible for blocking under this rule. - Can I appeal if my request is denied?
Yes. You can request reconsideration, provide additional documentation, or file a complaint with the CFPB.