Credit card statement not mine!

reese

Hi, not sure where to post this. A credit card statement was sent to my address. I've never heard of the person who it was addressed and have lived here since the house was first built. I opened the letter as I hadn't checked the name and do have a credit card with the same company. The amount owed was much higher than I expected which is when I checked the name and then the account number which differs to mine. I contacted the helpline but as the account was not in my name they were unable to discuss it with me and I was told to return the letter. This matter is causing me concern but don't know what I can do to check how this account has been opened with my address. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks

lpp1980

Could be a simple admin issue with the address, digit missing or something, but I'd ring them again and demand to speak to someone senior. Tottally unacceptable for them to fobb you off like that. Quite possible that someone has knowingly and falsley applied for a credit card using your or address, quite worrying. Definitely ring them and threaten to speak to an ombudsman if they don't look into it.

jimjames

I had a similar thing happen to me. It was passed to their fraud dept as it was attempted identity theft as a card had been taken out in my name/address but not by me although I had an account at that bank (MBNA).

Luckily it was found before they had used it but it appeared that it was something they were aware of being quite common as my details are available publicly as a director of my company. My name was added to the anti fraud register so that any credit applications now get more checks done. It causes some hassle when I want to take out credit but at least means its more likely to actually be me doing it.

Andy

GRobinson

I would make sure to note down the time and date you called the customer service number to notify them and also when you returned that statement. I would also make a note of the name and account number used and check the card company to make sure they have received the statement you have sent. I would also probably call your local police and report it if fraud is suspected - it could be something as simple as an accidental address error or it could be fraud. Stay safe and record everything!