An identity theft block is a special FCRA process for information caused by identity theft. A consumer generally must provide appropriate proof of identity, an identity theft report, identification of the affected information, and a statement that the information is not connected to a transaction by the consumer.
The practical meaning.
The block process is faster and more document-specific than an ordinary accuracy dispute, but it is only for genuine identity theft. False identity-theft reports can carry serious consequences.
In identity-theft recovery instructions, bureau block confirmations, or correspondence about fraudulent credit-report items.
Similar words, different jobs.
An ordinary dispute challenges inaccurate or incomplete information; an identity-theft block requires the specific statutory documents for theft-related information.
A freeze restricts access to help prevent new-account fraud; a block addresses identified identity-theft information already appearing in a report.
Identify every fraudulent account or item on the report rather than sending a blanket request.
Include the required identity proof, identity theft report, and statement that the transaction was not yours.
Use an ordinary dispute for a reporting disagreement that is not identity theft.
- A consumer reporting company generally must block properly identified identity-theft information within four business days after receiving the required materials.
- The company can decline or rescind a block in limited circumstances and must notify the consumer when it does so.
