Dilemma- family credit fraud, don't want to report

markustee

To preface, I've looked into all of the permutations of this situation, right into the most extreme. I know what I'm advised to do by the law, but that's not what I'm going to do. I am convinced this will not happen again. I will not allow it to happen again.

Long story short- a family member has admitted that she has opened a credit account in my name. She has showed me said account, it is currently up to date on a 500 pound credit limit owing 215 pounds. I have obtained a free credit account to ensure I'm getting the full story and it seems I am. Ideally, what I would hope to do is wipe the balance, close the account and put this horrible thing behind us both and get my relative the help she needs. What I worry about is the company wishing to pursue her separately. I understand it is their right to do so, but in the absence of any balance and a full admission, would they be able to? how will I go about getting any fraud flags lifted?

markustee

To clarify- I've got a free credit CHECK account.

DCFC79

markustee wrote: »

To clarify- I've got a free credit CHECK account.

Whats 1 of them ?

Do you mean Experian account ?

markustee

That's it, yeah.

DCFC79

Does the credit account owner eg the supplier know you didn't apply for the account eg have you told them, if they don't know then there shouldn't be fraud markers in place so get the account paid off and closed.

markustee

That sounds pretty straightforward. Was convinced it'd be harder but I suppose it's a case of just going into the account she set up as myself. Thanks, it's been a rough week

Malmo

Assuming that you want this to be resolved internally and the creditor is none the wiser, then settle the account in full and close it. Have a very frank discussion with the relative about the potential consequences of their actions and put them on the right track. Take extra precautions to protect your personal data.

markustee

So after another talk with this relative, it sounds like she might have garnered some suspicion from the company as I have received a letter from them asking me to call urgently. There is only 20 pounds to pay now. I don't want to call and incriminate her- tbh I just want to send a cheque with a request to close the account and never think of it again. Is that even an option now? I can't believe I'm this worried about something I didn't even do.

Jamiesmum

Yep just make her pay it off and close it down (whilst you are there) don't need to reply to the letter or phone call once it's closed it's closed.

For what it's worth it would carry a Caution for fraud from the police if you ever took it further. If you didn't want too, the police won't do anything now it's paid off.

Small scale stuff, but how you going to make sure she doesn't do it again??

markustee

That's a relief. Yeah, let's just say an ultimatum has been given.

Jamiesmum

She is very lucky, regardless of any anger ect - I think you're being extremely generous about the situation by letting her pay it off and close it down. I hope she knows how lucky she is. And I hope it goes well for you both.