Fraud victims now only need to call one credit reference agency to reset their files, thanks to a new deal struck between the firms.
Britain's three credit reference agencies have agreed to improve inter-firm communications - a move which will benefit consumers who fall victim to fraud.
The deal, struck between CallCredit, Equifax and Experian, means that each agency will notify the others when they restore a scam victim's record. In effect, people affected by the crime will now only need to make one phone call to update their records - rather than having to phone all three firms.
Records are negatively affected by a variety of ID scams, including credit card cloning. This is because the theft of personal details can lead to the fraudster either clearing bank accounts or taking out loans.
Indeed, consumer groups generally recommend that people check their credit files regularly through the three agencies - in order to check that no fraud is being perpetrated using their name. A report costs around £2 to generate.
The agencies' move has been welcomed by the National Consumer Council. "[The new scheme] simplifies the whole process of sorting out the mess left behind by fraudsters and helps victims get their finances back on track," Anna Fielder at the group commented.
Around 100,000 people a year fall victim to identity fraud, the BBC reports.
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