This adds to what I have already read about AFNI trying to extort money from people who did not start, nor had a Cellular One account.
My story is simple. I have lived in a Oregon state for a decade and a half.
I received a letter demanding over 1,000 dollars for a Cellular One account that was started in Nebraska - when? Unknown, but around 1999.
I contacted AFNI and was immediately asked for my SSN and phone number. The person was immediately rude - demanding I give him information - obviously because he was fishing. Wrong! I did not give him ANY of the information. I asked for details about this account, you know, who, address, when and got no answers. I then terminated my call. Fortunately, I have an unlisted number.
Now. I should explain that I am a law enforcement officer. During the time that this account was opened, I was working for my current police agency. I brought AFNI's letter to one of our Detectives who runs background investigations for agency employees. He wrote a letter to AFNI telling them that at no time did I live in Nebraska, and since I had been an employee since 1998, it was not my account and that I had in the past been a victim of Identity Fraud. My background was thoroughly investigated prior to being hired.
I sent this documentation, along with my letter disputing the claim and required a return receipt from the Post Office, signed by a K. Stevens.
Now, today, I receive another nasty surprise letter from AFNI, demanding that I send them a copy of drivers license, copy of SSN Card, Proof of residence at time the account was established (like I'd know!) Since they could or would not tell me when in 1999, or any address, other then "Nebraska" - and WHO here keeps utility bills back that far? They also want copy of tax records and a Police Report - which they already had based on the letter and facts provided by my employer.
Now, Cellular One - has some explaining to do here too, since I have had a Fraud Alert on all 3 Bureaus since 1990. Guess what! If someone opened an account under my name and SSN, they were obligated to call and verify based on the Fraud Alert. No call.
On checking my credit files tonight, I discover that they had placed collections on this account on 2 Credit Bureau Reports!
Despite the fact that I can account for when and where I was during this period, it makes no difference to these crooks, and I will be damned if I will give them my information and jeopardize my family or myself. I know that sounds a bit paranoid - but think about it! This is just wonderful information for a criminal bent on exacting revenge if they can somehow get their hands on it.
I have already prepared a Letter of Verification and will discuss this with the Detective on Monday before sending it out.
For those of you who have been victims of Identity Fraud, like me, I know what you are going through! As for the ethics of this company? Well. My nose smells a crook. Even I, at this point feel powerless to do anything about it, so folks, you got company!
What other options do I have? Other then disputing the entries with Credit Reporting Agencies - is there anything else that can be done? After visiting the IL Attorney General's web site, I'm convinced that they would be no help.
Like most of you - I just want my good name restored.
0 comments