If you’re applying for a job or trying to rent an apartment, the employer or landlord might conduct a background check. They may hire a company to provide information like your employment history, your driving record, any criminal records, and your credit report. The information in the background report could make the difference in whether you get the job or apartment, so it’s important it be accurate.

Two companies that each made millions of dollars selling background reports, but didn’t take reasonable steps to make the reports completely accurate, recently settled Federal Trade Commission charges that they violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act and FTC Act.

So, you’re about to begin a new job search, and you’re ticking items off your to-do list.

• You’ve set up an online account so you’ll know about new job openings.
• You’ve polished your resume — and your shoes.
• You’ve run through some possible interview questions with a friend.

Have you requested your annual credit report from www.annualcreditreport.com?

Sunday marks the 16th annual National Consumer Protection Week. The Federal Trade Commission stands with 74 federal, state and local agencies and organizations to stand up for consumers by highlighting the very best in consumer education resources.