Fraud

Your credit score is a tool businesses use to measure your creditworthiness - how likely it is that you will repay a loan.  Equifax, Experian and Transunion each compile a report of your credit  history to determine your credit score.  Occassionally, there will be errors in your credit history that will adversely effect your credit score and your ability to borrow money. 

The Federal Trade Commission site includes tips on how to protect yourself, as well as things to look for when spotting a scam.  https://consumer.ftc.gov/