Consumer complaint received 2025-06-14 00:00:00
Product: Credit reporting or other personal consumer reports — Credit reporting
Issue: Problem with a company's investigation into an existing problem — Problem with personal statement of dispute
Company: EQUIFAX, INC.
State: AL

Complaint narrative:
XXXX is reporting an account with multiple late payments on my credit reports with Equifax XXXX XXXX, despite the fact that the account was opened without my knowledge or consent by a family member using my personal information. 

After noticing a XXXX  in my credit score, I investigated and found the XXXX account. I immediately contacted XXXX and explained that I had not opened or authorized this account, and that it was likely created by XXXX XXXX who has previously used my Social Security number and other personal data without my permission to apply for credit. This includes past attempts to open XXXX  cards and an XXXX loan, all of which I disputed and had removed from my reports after investigation. 

XXXX responded to my dispute by stating that they verified the information as accurate because the IP address and device used to open the account matched mine. However, this does not change the fact that the account was unauthorized. The family member who opened it ( XXXX XXXX ) has direct, independent access to my devices, location, and sensitive personal information, including my SSN. Simply matching a device or IP address does not prove consent or authorization, especially within a shared household or when there is a history of misuse by trusted individuals. 

The Fair Credit Reporting Act ( FCRA ) protects consumers from inaccurate reporting due to unauthorized activity, even when a relative is involvedXXXX XXXX refusal to acknowledge these circumstances and its reliance on weak technical identifiers like IP addresses is a failure of their duty under FCRA XXXX, which requires furnishers of credit information to investigate disputes thoroughly and report only verified, accurate data. 

I did eventually pay the balance, not because I owed the debt, but to mitigate further credit harm after learning that my file had already been affected. I already come from a XXXX background and have enough to pay on my own without this being added to my plate. This payment was made under duress, not as an admission of liability. I NEVER used XXXX  before this and NEVER did after. 

Given the circumstances, I am formally requesting the following : Permanent deletion of all XXXX remarks and late payment history related to the XXXX account from XXXX Equifax XXXX XXXX, as this account was the result of unauthorized use. 
A formal review of XXXX identity verification process, especially in situations involving shared IP/device access in familial settings. 
Written confirmation that XXXX will not continue reporting this account as mine or hold me responsible for it. 

I am choosing not to pursue XXXX  charges due to the involvement of XXXX XXXX who is a XXXX to several young children. I trust the CFPB and XXXX will understand the deeply personal nature of this matter and act with compassion and compliance. 

I expect a timely and thorough response in line with FCRA requirements and my right to an accurate credit file.

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation