Credit Card Fraud Victim --- Please advise

bigfishbrum

Hi,

I'm seeking some advice regarding my credit card debt that is made up of fraudulent transactions.

In April 2005 I lost my wallet and didn't notice it was missing until the following morning. Phoned all my banks and credit card companies to cancel and reissue the cards. Two credit cards were used in shops by whoever found the wallet. I got statement from the credit card companies and noticed the transactions. Event after completing all the required forms provided and declarations sent, including the reference number from police, the money is still outstanding.

One credit card has a balance of over £1,400 and the other just over £949. The debt has increased and been passed around to at least 10 different companies who have been sending me letters of FINAL DEMAND. I am not willing to pay those balances because I feel I did not use the cards and should not have to pay this debt. I also feel that the banks and these debt collection agencies have constantly been bullying me into paying this money. They even offered 50% settlement discount. I believe I should not have to pay anything. Am I not entitled to ask for proof of signature from the stores, which I did with the banks?

The problem (after 2 years) it is causing me is my credit rating, since these two balances are displayed as DEFAULT on my credit file.

Can someone advise me on how to get this resolved (without having to pay) and clear my credit file?

Thank you.


BFB

Mozette

Just bumping this up, but can you not complain to the FSA ombudsman or something? I would say you are at least entitled to an explanation of why the companies think you are liable, given that you reported the loss and filled in all the forms.

montrose5

Just had a look at the small print on one of my cc's. They only accept liability from the moment you report it lost/stolen. If you still have the paperwork give it a look

billycasper_2

no one is liable for the cost of credit card fraud if you still have the card. the maximum they can charge is £50.
in your case you may need to write to the financial ombudsman for help. the cc company could argue you were negligent in the protection of your card.(you failed to look after it)
take a look at this case from a few years ago it may help
http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/credit-and-loans/article.html?in_article_id=401706&in_page_id=9

Iamthesmartestmanalive

The bank appear to have held you liable for some reason

If things are as simple as you claim their would be no reason, questions I would ask

1) Was your pin used
2) Was your personal security information used
3) Did you report it straight away
4) did you comply with all bank requests (CRN etc)
5) did you sign and return all paperwork?