Due to an attempted identity theft years ago, I put a permanent security freeze years ago on my accounts with all three credit reporting agencies, to be sure I am protected. I have NO DEBT, NONE - I have no loans, I pay off my credit cards in full every month and have done so for years (I am 71 years old) and, per my Experian report on 10/20/2022, I have a FICO score of 811. I call every few years to get a free report from each agency, just to keep tabs on things.
However yesterday, when I called the automated request line for my free report from Equifax, IT DID NOT RECOGNIZE MY DATE OF BIRTH, and refused a report to me. I called back, and it did not ask my date of birth but began asking me a series of questions about a number of specific loans and purchases (I think it said they were made in 2021 and 2022), NONE OF WHICH WERE MINE, so I plugged in "none of the above". And it refused me again. I called a third time, and got the same result.
I am in a panic - I do not even know how to reach at REAL PERSON at Equifax to help me with this! Oh please, will you help me? Would you tell me what to do? I want to clear this up immediately, and I am fearful for my other credit agencies now, as well.
Legal Issues with Compromised Equifax Credit Report
If you have discovered that your Equifax credit report has been compromised, it is crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage. The Equifax data breach in 2017 exposed the personal information of millions of people, leaving them vulnerable to identity theft and financial fraud. If you suspect that your Equifax credit report has been compromised, there are steps you can take to address the issue.
Understanding the Context of the Issue
A compromised Equifax credit report means that someone has gained unauthorized access to your personal and financial information. This could include your name, address, Social Security number, and credit card information. If this information falls into the wrong hands, it can be used to open fraudulent accounts in your name, make unauthorized purchases, or take out loans in your name.
Possible Solutions from the Legal Perspective
If you suspect that your Equifax credit report has been compromised, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:
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Place a Fraud Alert: You can place a fraud alert on your Equifax credit report by contacting Equifax directly. This alert will let potential creditors and lenders know that you have been a victim of identity theft, and they should take extra precautions before extending credit or opening new accounts in your name.
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File a Dispute: If you believe that there is inaccurate or fraudulent information on your Equifax credit report, you can file a dispute with Equifax. This will initiate an investigation, and Equifax will have to respond within 30 days.
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Freeze Your Credit: You can also freeze your Equifax credit report, which will prevent anyone from accessing your credit information without your permission. This can be a good option if you do not plan to apply for credit in the near future.
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Consult with an Attorney: If you believe that you have been the victim of identity theft or financial fraud, you should consult with an attorney who specializes in consumer protection and credit reporting issues.
Related Authorities in Boulder, Colorado
Here are some authorities in Boulder, Colorado that you may find helpful:
- The Colorado Attorney General's Office provides information on consumer protection, including identity theft and credit reporting issues.
- The Boulder County District Attorney's Office has a Consumer Protection Division that handles complaints related to consumer fraud and scams.
- The Colorado Consumer Protection Coalition is a network of organizations that work together to educate consumers and protect their rights.
Rates for Various Legal Services in Boulder, Colorado
Here is a table with rates for various legal services in Boulder, Colorado:
| Service | Rate |
|---|---|
| Consultation | $150-$300/hour |
| Credit Report Dispute | $100-$1,000 |
| Identity Theft | $500-$2,500 |
| Credit Freeze | $5-$15 |
Legal Disclaimer
This answer is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or establish an attorney-client relationship. You should consult with an attorney if you have specific legal questions or concerns.
