Cross-Check Could Prevent Identity Theft

“Protecting Your Good Name From Thieves” (Nov. 30) proposes a “fraud alert” on credit reports, requiring creditors to call for credit approval after signs of identity theft appear.

But identity theft can be prevented altogether by requiring verification upfront -- instead of after the debt has been incurred, the creditor has lost the funds and the consumer faces the humiliation of credit reconstruction.

Focus on prevention, not repair.

Why couldn’t a simple cross-check be mandatory before any applicant is granted credit or required to repay?

Kirt Thiesmeyer

Glendale