Consumer complaint received 2023-11-24
Company: EQUIFAX, INC.
State: MA
Product: Credit reporting or other personal consumer reports
Sub-product: Credit reporting
Issue: Unable to get your credit report or credit score
Sub-issue: Other problem getting your report or credit score

Complaint:
I am writing to formally lodge a complaint against Equifax for what appears to be an arbitrary and unjustifiable reduction in my credit score, which constitute a violation of federal consumer protection laws. This complaint is filed pursuant to my rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act ( FCRA ), 15 U.S.C. 1681, et seq., and other applicable federal statutes. 

On XX/XX/2023, my credit score, as reported by Equifax, stood at XXXX. Within an inexplicable and abrupt timeframe, it plummeted to XXXX by XX/XX/2023, a reduction of XXXX points without any corresponding change in my financial status or credit report activities. 

This unexplained modification in my credit score raises serious questions regarding the accuracy and integrity of Equifax 's credit reporting practices. 

Allegations Against Equifax : Violation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act : The FCRA obligates credit reporting agencies to ensure the maximum possible accuracy of their data. The sudden and unexplained fluctuation in my credit score suggests potential non-compliance with this statutory requirement. 

Failure to Notify : The FCRA mandates that any consumer subjected to adverse action based on a credit report should receive timely notification of the same. The lack of such notification in my case further underscores a breach of statutory duty. 

Request for Investigative Relief : Pursuant to the FCRA, I hereby request a comprehensive investigation into this matter. The inexplicable change in my credit score warrants a thorough examination of Equifax 's reporting methodologies and compliance with federal law. 

Concerns Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act ( ECOA ) : This matter also raises potential concerns under the ECOA, which prohibits discriminatory practices in credit transactions. The arbitrary nature of the credit score alteration may result in unintended discriminatory impacts.

Constitutional Considerations : Although Equifax, as a private entity, is not directly subject to the Constitution 's provisions in the same manner as government entities, its operations and practices are nevertheless regulated by laws that embody constitutional principles, particularly those relating to fairness, equity, and due process. This complaint contends that Equifax 's actions, as described herein, may not only be in potential violation of specific statutes like the FCRA and ECOA but also contravene the broader legal principles of fairness and transparency that are foundational to our legal system. It is imperative that such institutions, which wield significant influence over individuals ' financial and personal lives, adhere strictly to both the letter and spirit of these laws to ensure that their practices do not unjustly impact citizens.

Enclosed is a screenshot substantiating the abrupt change in my credit score. I anticipate your prompt and judicious response to this matter and am prepared to provide any additional information as may be required. 

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation