Filing an identity theft report can provide quick results. But before you deploy this tool make sure the unidentified accounts on your report are not a case of a less threatening file merger error.
File Merger Errors
The credit bureaus allow for minor variance in the data they use to identify you. If, for example, another person has a similar name and enough common numbers in their Social Security number, their credit file may be mixed with yours. If you see a mystery account on your credit report, call the creditor and ask about it. If it is a file merger error they will not have a record of the account as the error is on the side of the credit bureau. Fortunately, it is easy to fix by sending the credit bureaus your ID, a list of the accounts, and asking them to block the other party from your report.
Identity Theft and the Fair Credit Reporting Act
Identity theft, on the other hand, is much more serious and requires a swift and decisive response. The Fair Credit Reporting Act: Section 605B requires that the credit bureaus block the reporting of all accounts that you have indicated are the result of identity theft, and they must do so within four business days of getting your request. The procedure is exacting, but effective. Just follow the instructions.
Step by Step Credit Repair Solution
To block fraudulent information from reporting on your credit report you must provide an Identity Theft or Police Report, proof of your identity, identification of suspect accounts, and a statement that the accounts in question are not yours and are not the result of any transaction made by you. We also suggest that you get this statement notarized. If you are in our credit repair program and feel you have been a victim of identity theft, please let us know and we will guide you through the process in the most efficient manner.
A Warning
It should also be noted that reporting identity theft is serious business. The disputed accounts will be investigated and criminal charges may be filed. So think before acting, and under no circumstances should this be used except in the case of fraudulent use of your identity.