CS/CS/HB 493 - Protected Consumer Security Freeze

• Creates section 501.0051, Florida Statutes, establishing a security freeze mechanism for consumers under 16 years of age and those represented by guardians under chapters 39, 393, 744, or 914

• Requires consumer reporting agencies to place security freezes within 30 days of a valid request and provide written confirmation within 10 business days, including a unique personal identifier for future freeze removal

• Prohibits consumer reporting agencies from stating or implying a security freeze reflects negative credit history or rating; freezes prevent release of consumer reports, credit scores, or information to third parties without express authorization

• Authorizes consumer reporting agencies to charge up to $10 for placing, removing, or reissuing a personal identifier, but prohibits fees for victims of identity theft who submit police reports

• Imposes $500 administrative fines for willful non-compliance and allows civil actions for actual damages or $1,000, whichever is greater; requires written notification if protected consumer information is released in violation of a freeze

• Effective September 1, 2013