While legitimate CIBIL score consultants and credit advisory services exist, many are scams that promise unrealistic results like “guaranteed” or “overnight” credit score improvements. Genuine agencies can help by identifying errors and guiding you through the correct processes, but only you, in cooperation with the credit bureaus and lenders, can truly improve your score over time through disciplined financial behavior. 

How Legitimate Agencies Help

Reputable credit repair agencies primarily act as a paid convenience, handling the communication and paperwork on your behalf. Their services typically involve: 

• Analysing your credit report to identify errors, discrepancies (like accounts marked “settled” that were fully paid, or unfamiliar loans), and areas for improvement.
• Filing disputes with CIBIL (or other credit bureaus like Experian, Equifax, and CRIF High Mark) and the relevant lenders to correct inaccurate information. This is a process you can do yourself for free through the CIBIL Consultant website.
• Providing personalized guidance on debt management and financial habits to help improve your score long-term. 

Red Flags and Scams

Be extremely cautious of agencies that make the following claims, as they are likely scams: 

• Guaranteed results: No one can guarantee a specific increase in your CIBIL score (e.g., “increase by 200 points in 30 days”).
• Overnight/instant fixes: Improving a credit score is a gradual process that takes months of consistent effort.
• Upfront full payment: Legitimate companies usually charge fees after they have provided a service, not before however few upfront
• “Secret” methods: They often use pushy sales tactics but are vague about their actual process.
• Ability to remove accurate negative information: They can only help remove errors. Legitimate defaults or missed payments will remain on your report for up to seven years. 

Effective & Legitimate Ways to Improve Your CIBIL Score

You can achieve significant improvement on your own by focusing on these core principles: 

• Keep credit utilization low: Aim to use no more than 30% of your total available credit limit.
• Check your credit report regularly: Monitor for errors or fraudulent activity and dispute any inaccuracies immediately with the credit bureau and lender.
• Maintain a healthy credit mix: A balance of secured loans (home/auto) and unsecured loans (personal/credit cards) is viewed positively.
• Avoid multiple hard inquiries: Only apply for new credit when necessary, as each application can temporarily lower your score.