Compensation for incorrect default on Experian credit report

[philip456]

In August 2011, I was the victim of identity theft, when someone opened an account in my name with Lebara Mobile. I wrote and telephoned them, got the account cancelled and a promise that I would hear no more about it.

On January 29th this year I had a credit score with Experian of 999 out of 1000. I made an offer to purchase a flat, which was accepted and applied for a mortgage with Northern Rock.

On February 4th my credit score had gone down to 587. The only change was a six month + overdue notice of £187 from Lebara Mobile. Northern Rock made their credit check and surprise, surprise my mortgage application was turned down.

I phoned Lebara Mobile but they refused to talk to me, saying they would only deal with Experian. I contacted Experian and eventually after a few weeks the entry was corrected and my credit rating went back upto 987 (slightly lower because of the searches, I guess).

I've managed to get a mortgage arranged with a new lender but it has taken a long time, stress and nearly lost the purchase of the property.

I have written five letters to Lebara Mobile and had no reply. I have made a subject access request, under the Data Protection Act, which they have ignored. It is over 40 days overdue and I have sent a complaint letter to the Information Commissioner's Office.

However, my question for the forum is - Am I eligible for compensation from Lebara Mobile and how much would be reasonable?

[BRIGADIER2JCS]

I'm sorry yout question seems to have been missed, to assess and claim

compensation for this you must work out what if any actual financial loss

you have incurred the add to that a figure that would reasonably compensate

for the embarassment and difficulties you had when your app was declined.

You should address the letter headed FORMAL COMPLAINT to their DATA CONTROLLER.