Consumer complaint received 2025-01-17 00:00:00
Product: Checking or savings account — Checking account
Issue: Opening an account — Account opened without my consent or knowledge
Company: WELLS FARGO & COMPANY
State: GA

Complaint narrative:
Subject : Complaint Against Wells Fargo for Unauthorized Account, Resulting Lien, and Financial Hardship To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting a formal complaint against Wells Fargo for opening an unauthorized credit card account in my name, which led to a lien on my property and subsequent severe financial and personal hardships.

Details of the Incident : Unauthorized Account : Approximately 6 to 7 years ago, Wells Fargo opened a credit card account in my name without my knowledge or consent. I have never conducted any business with Wells Fargo and was unaware of this account until recently.

Discovery of Lien : In XXXX, while attempting to sell my property at XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX, I discovered a lien placed by Wells Fargo for an outstanding debt of {$30000.00} related to this unauthorized account. The original debt was allegedly {$12000.00}, which ballooned due to accumulated interest and fees.

Forced Settlement : To proceed with the sale and avoid losing the buyer, I was compelled to settle the lien by paying the full {$30000.00}, despite having no knowledge of or responsibility for the debt.

Impact on My Life : Financial Hardship : The unexpected {$30000.00} payment depleted my financial resources, leading to bankruptcy and the loss of potential investment opportunities.

Personal Strain : The financial stress contributed to the breakdown of my marriage and separation from my children.

Loss of Trust : This incident has eroded my trust in banking institutions, and I currently do not have a personal bank account.

Legal Violations by Wells Fargo : Wells Fargo 's actions have violated several federal laws : 1. Fair Credit Reporting Act ( FCRA ) 15 U.S.C. 1681 : By opening an unauthorized account and reporting inaccurate information, Wells Fargo failed to ensure the accuracy and integrity of information furnished to credit reporting agencies.

2. Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act 18 U.S.C. 1028 : Opening an account without my consent constitutes identity theft, as defined by this statute.

3. Fair Debt Collection Practices Act ( FDCPA ) 15 U.S.C. 1692 : By attempting to collect a debt not owed by me, Wells Fargo engaged in unfair and deceptive practices.

4. Truth in Lending Act ( TILA ) 15 U.S.C. 1601 : Issuing a credit account without proper disclosure or authorization violates TILA 's requirement for clear and accurate information regarding credit terms.

Relevant Precedents : Wells Fargo has a documented history of similar misconduct : XXXX Scandal : The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau ( CFPB ) fined Wells Fargo {$100.00} XXXX for the widespread illegal practice of secretly opening unauthorized accounts. 

XXXX Settlement : Wells Fargo agreed to pay {$3.00} XXXX to resolve criminal and civil investigations into fraudulent sales practices, including the opening of millions of unauthorized accounts. 

XXXX Settlement : The bank agreed to a {$1.00} XXXX settlement of a shareholder lawsuit over unauthorized customer accounts.

Requested Resolution : Full Reimbursement : I seek the return of the {$30000.00} paid to settle the unauthorized lien.

Credit Repair : Immediate removal of any negative credit information related to this unauthorized account.

Formal Apology : A written apology acknowledging the wrongdoing and outlining steps taken to prevent future occurrences.

Compensation for Damages : Consideration of additional compensation for the financial and emotional distress caused.

I appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and look forward to a fair resolution.

Company public response: Company has responded to the consumer and the CFPB and chooses not to provide a public response
Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation