Expert Advises People To Beware of Scams.

Miami -- Foreclosures, debt, or past credit problems have tainted the records of many customers who turn into credit repair targets even though according to the Federal Trade Commission, accurate and timely negative information on a credit report cannot be legally removed.

Some experts, however, both warn customers about credit repair companies, and suggest they inquire about and take advantage of legitimate ways to improve one's credit score over time.

Brokers, lenders, servicers and others in the mortgage industry also can embrace and help educate borrowers about the latter.

According to Michael Mack, author of the book "How to Instantly Eliminate Credit Card Debt (Without Bankruptcy or Credit Counseling)," customers need to be "especially careful of faceless Internet companies making big promises.

"People with poor credit are desperately seeking help and guidance to repair their record," said Mr. Mack, whom friends and colleagues call "The Credit Man."

"The ads people see appear legitimate to them, and they get hooked on the hope that it will work and that they will have better credit."

As a rule, due to poor credit, or low FICO scores, potential borrowers are turned down for loans or pay higher interest rates, and even prevent people from getting jobs.