Help! O2 have put a default on my credit file but I've never had an O2 account

rngDeadeye

Hi All

At wits end here. I'm normally pretty good with all things credit file related but I have a big issue.

I recently checked my Equifax credit file as I need to re-mortgage in a few months when my fixed rate finishes. I was shocked to see how poor my score was. Basically, I have a default notice on my account for a mobile phone contract (which was subsequently bought by Lowell Portfolio). I now also have a linked address which has nothing to do with me.

I have raised a dispute with Equifax and they say they cannot remove it and I should call Lowell Portfolio. I rang them and they say they can't remove it and to call Equifax. I've been back to Equifax and they say they now have to raise the dispute with O2.

Equifax are now saying O2 won't remove the incorrect information because they say it is correct.

I have contacted O2 who gave me an email address creditfilereferrals@o2.com but I've not had a reply yet.

I feel pretty helpless. It's disgusting that any Tom-!!!! or Harry can put false information on my credit file.

What can I do?

Candyapple

Have you tried here:
https://www.resolver.co.uk/companies/o2-complaints

If that doesn't work - you need to report the ID theft to the police to get a crime reference number:
http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/fraud_protection/identity_fraud

With the CRN you need to write to o2 and also Lowell. Write as in write a letter - not e-mail and send via recorded delivery.

You will need to specify that you have never had an account with o2 and provide them with the CRN and ask them to remove the adverse data from all 3 credit reference agencies and also to remove your details from Lowell.

If o2 / Lowell refuse to do so, then you'll need to involve the Ombudsman and await their decision.

Equifax or any of the other credit reference agencies can't help you - they only report the data. The company which is reporting the data about you is the only one who can remove it. They will have to speak to Equifax and the other CRAs to remove the data.

rngDeadeye

That's great, thank you.

I hadn't thought about the ID theft angle.