Recently I received an email that listed a phone number to call to opt out of preapproved credit offer mailings by credit grantors utilizing Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. It stated that a new law enacted July 1, 2002 allows others to get one's personal info unless they opt out. Is this true?

The email is false and misleading. You've had the ability to opt out from pre-approved credit offers for a long time (by calling 1 (888) 567-8688) but this phone number has nothing to do with who can see your credit report.

Companies that request your credit report still must have a legal permissible purpose under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. (It was last amended in 1998.)

Here's where you can see who has requested your credit report. (The information is in the Inquiries section of your 3-bureau merged credit report from Experian, Equifax, and Trans Union.)

Here is the Trans Union press release about the bogus email.

1:54:18 PM