The proliferation of laws allowing consumers to freeze their credit may increase costs for banks, say banking lobbyists. Since 2001, more than 25 states, including California, New York and Texas, have passed legislation allowing consumers to put a hold on their credit if they think they've been a victim of identity theft. A federal bill introduced last week by U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor would allow consumers to block access to their financial information at their discretion. As the measures gain popularity with lawmakers and consumers, some bankers are concerned that freezes may result in a greater administrative burden for banks....
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