Re:Identity Theft, Credit Reports, and You
by lucaspiller on Saturday September 09, 2017 @10:47AM
(#15207315)
Even if you don't have a line of credit, identity theft is a very common occurrence. If you know you don't owe anything, it's still pretty scary to receive a letter saying your debt has been passed onto a debt collection agency.
Last year somebody opened a number of phone contracts and ordered TV (to my house...?) in my name. Here in the UK apparently you just need a name, address and date of birth to walk out of a shop with a brand new iPhone 7.
I eventually got it sorted, but it took a couple of months to get every cleared up. I made the mistake of using the phone, although the people I spoke to were helpful, I had to repeat everything from the beginning many times. If it happens again, I'll follow this advice and write letters.
Re:Identity Theft, Credit Reports, and You
by uiri on Saturday September 09, 2017 @02:59PM
(#15208606)
The advice here is very American-centric and cites US law. You should look up the laws in the UK. Letter writing may not have the same punch that it does in the US.
Last year somebody opened a number of phone contracts and ordered TV (to my house...?) in my name. Here in the UK apparently you just need a name, address and date of birth to walk out of a shop with a brand new iPhone 7.
I eventually got it sorted, but it took a couple of months to get every cleared up. I made the mistake of using the phone, although the people I spoke to were helpful, I had to repeat everything from the beginning many times. If it happens again, I'll follow this advice and write letters.