CIFAS a problem?

RobBob_3

Hi

On checking my credit report I find that my address (not my current one though - but the one that I registered with CreditExpert with and haven't got round to telling them has changed) has been added to the CIFAS list (thanks "Mr Shohid Ali"!!).

Should this be on my credit report anyway, considering it is not in my name nor an associated person?

What effect will this have on my applications (it says they should still be fine but further checks may be done) in reality? As I say it will be a past address not a current one when I apply...

Galstonian

The answer to whether it should be on your report is unfortunately "yes".

It will depend on the CIFAS warning itself, there are many different categories but most are linked to the address not to the individual. It is meant to be more of a warning to lenders that something dodgy was attempted in the past so special care needs to be taken to ensure the application is genuine (I think "special care" should always be taken but that's another story). More info can be found at http://www.cifas.org.uk/complaints_credit_01.asp

Will it affect you? Well the answer is supposed to be "no" but I can't comment on that in practice as every credit check is different and you could be rejected for any reason. Have you been accepted for anything while the CIFAS warning has been on your file?

If I were you I would try and find out what the warning relates to, who put it there and why. If you think it is inaccurate then request that it be removed but it is all too possible that it is accurate or that since it does not relate to you (just an address) that you will not be able to get any further details.

Probably not what you want to hear, sorry.

Fatboy_NSS

The CIFAS indicator shows there has been a suspicion of fraud at an address. As it relates to suspicion rather than proof then you can't claim it's inaccurate, and also it does apply to the address rather than the individual. However banks aren't allowed to decline an application due to CIFAS, just make more thorough checks to confirm your identity. The only difference you'd probably notice would be that the bank might ask for more ID documents than their usual policy would require, although that probably wouldn't be an issue anyway as it's at a previous address rather than your present one.

Galstonian

There are 8 categories of CIFAS warning, none refer to "suspicion" (except category 0 but that is instigated by the subject) . Some refer to attempted fraud/deception, some actual fraud/deception but the important part is that they do not relate these events to the individual, just to the address. Prove you are who you say you are and the warnings should not affect you.

0 Protective Registration
1 False Identity Fraud
2 Victim of Impersonation
3 Application Fraud (Facility Granted)
4 Application Fraud (Facility Refused)
5 Conversion
6 First Party Fraud
7 Aiding & Abetting
8 Insurance Claims Fraud

RobBob_3

Hi - thanks for the quick replies

The reason for entry is very clear "First Party Fraud - Opening an account or other facility for a fraudulent purpose, or the fraudulent misuse of an account or facility." by Lloyds TSB, and is clearly valid.

I am well aware my previous address had a poor history (it is London, after all) - I estimate that under 3 or 4 names there is about GB130K of debt to big banks defaulting (after being set up to pay each off etc.) and at least 5 or 6 cars registered there (parking, congestion, road tax fines bonanza, CCJs etc.).

As I'm living abroad now (not because of the above!) further checks before credit in my name sounds fine - so long as when I come back I can start moving my cards around again.

I've read a bit further and it sounds like a good idea this CIFAS thing - just wonder if anyone has an negative sides to having this on my record (as it looks like it won't be moving).

Thanks

RobBob_3

I'd just like to add that I wonder what kind of policeman would not stop a car registered to "Na Na" - don't the police rountinely check cars anymore?

Galstonian

CIFAS is a great idea, unfortunately it was set up by the industry with no external involvement and I do not think there are any statutory rights guaranteed for individuals. There is nothing to stop a bank using this information to reject your application apart from a rule saying they won't. The bank wrote the rules, the bank enforces the rules, the rules cost the banks more time and effort. You tell me where the potential downside might be...

RobBob_3

Agreed re regulation. But then, before this was on my record I got refused for a Alliance & Leicester current account, a Nationwide current account (and credit card) etc. so I think the address is unofficially blacklisted by scammed banks even if not on the CIFAS register.

Only Sainsburys CC sailed through since they didn't do any checks (an interesting policy!) - put it on Experian since sending the card though!

Went into a Nationwide bank and opened an account without drama (though she spent maybe 15 minutes trying to find me on Experian) with 750 overdraft and 3750 credit card which though not great was sufficient. Will be reviewed in 3 months. Until then I'm using my Natwest account as a conduit.