New Delhi, Oct. 1 -- Not too long ago, credit checks were reactive. People only became aware of their credit history when faced with financial setbacks, like a loan rejection or denial of a credit card. Credit reports were rarely reviewed, and many consumers didn't even know they existed.

In such a system, errors and issues often went unnoticed until the consequences emerged. A small missed payment, an outdated record, or even an incorrect entry could derail important financial goals. Like my friend's case, where a negligible overdue nearly cost her a dream home, most people only learned about their credit report when it is too late to avoid the stress.

This story today will be different - what was once a hidden part of finance - checke...