Consumer complaint received 2025-07-03 00:00:00
Product: Credit reporting or other personal consumer reports — Credit reporting
Issue: Problem with a company's investigation into an existing problem — Difficulty submitting a dispute or getting information about a dispute over the phone
Company: EQUIFAX, INC.
State: CA

Complaint narrative:
FCRA 605B ( 15 U.S.C. 1681c-2 ) - Block of Information Resulting from Identity Theft : This is the most direct and crucial provision. It mandates that a CRA shall block the reporting of any information that a consumer identifies as resulting from alleged identity theft, provided the consumer supplies : Appropriate proof of identity. 
A copy of an identity theft report ( like the one from the FTC ). 
Identification of the specific fraudulent information. 
A statement that the information is not related to any transaction by the consumer. 
The CRA must do this not later than XXXX business days after receiving this information. 
If a CRA fails to block this information within the specified timeframe after receiving proper documentation, they are in direct violation of this section.

FCRA 623 ( 15 U.S.C. 1681s-2 ) - Responsibilities of Furnishers of Information : While this section primarily applies to the entities providing the information to the credit bureaus, it's relevant because if the fraudulent information remains, the furnisher might also be at fault.

623 ( a ) ( 6 ) : If a furnisher learns that it has furnished inaccurate information due to identity theft, it must notify each consumer reporting agency of the correct information and must thereafter report only complete and accurate information.

623 ( b ) : When a furnisher receives notice of a dispute from a CRA ( which the CRA is required to send once you initiate a block request under 605B ), the furnisher has a duty to investigate the dispute, review all relevant information, and report the results to the CRA. If the information is found to be inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable, they must modify, delete, or block the reporting of that information.

623 ( a ) ( 5 ) : A furnisher may not furnish information that a consumer has identified as resulting from identity theft unless the furnisher subsequently knows or is informed by the consumer that the information is correct. This is critical for preventing the re-reporting of blocked information.

615 ( f ) : If a debt resulting from identity theft has been blocked, a person or business with notice of the block may not sell, transfer, or place the debt for collection.

FCRA 607 ( b ) ( 15 U.S.C. 1681e ( b ) ) - Requirements on Consumer Reporting Agencies : This section requires CRAs to " follow reasonable procedures to assure maximum possible accuracy of the information concerning the individual about whom the report relates. '' While not directly about identity theft blocking, the continued reporting of demonstrably fraudulent information after an FTC report could be seen as a failure to maintain reasonable procedures for accuracy, especially given the clear directive of 605B.

Consequences of Violations : If a CRA or furnisher violates these provisions, you may have the right to : Sue in state or federal court : The FCRA allows consumers to sue violators. 
Recover actual damages : This could include financial losses directly resulting from the continued reporting of fraudulent information ( e.g., denial of credit, higher interest rates ).

Statutory damages : For willful noncompliance, you may be entitled to statutory damages ( typically {$100.00} to {$1000.00} per violation ).

Punitive damages : In cases of willful noncompliance, a court may award punitive damages.

Attorney 's fees and court costs : If you win your lawsuit, the violator may be ordered to pay your reasonable attorney 's fees and court costs. 
What to do if they continue to display it : Send a certified letter : If you haven't already, send a formal, certified letter to the credit bureau and the furnisher. Clearly state your identity theft situation, reference your FTC Identity Theft Report, specify the accounts/information that needs to be blocked or removed, and cite the relevant FCRA sections ( especially 605B ). Keep copies of everything.

File a complaint : Consumer Financial Protection Bureau ( CFPB ) : The CFPB is a federal agency that oversees consumer financial products and services, including credit reporting. You can file a complaint with them. 
Federal Trade Commission ( FTC ) : While the FTC provides the identity theft report, they also handle complaints about unfair or deceptive practices. 
Your State Attorney General 's Office : Many states have consumer protection divisions. 
Consult an attorney : If the derogatory information persists despite your efforts, it's highly advisable to consult with an attorney specializing in FCRA litigation. They can help you understand your rights and pursue legal action if necessary.

Company response to consumer: Closed with non-monetary relief