I’d be grateful for advice about how to deal with debt agencies who are trying to trace someone I know nothing about. The calls began a couple of years ago. Each time I explained I had no idea who the person they were looking for was, then the calls stopped. A few months later another agency called and we went through the same process. The calls then stopped again for about a year, but in the past few weeks they have started again from yet another agency. It has now become more than just irritating. Is there anything at all I can do to stop this happening?
AB, London
You appear to have been identified by a tracing or credit reference agency, most probably because your name or address matches or resembles that of someone who does owe money. It’s known as a “mis-trace” and the company should correct its information as soon as it is informed that it is wrong. It’s best to ask it in writing to correct its records and you’re entitled to ask it for the source of information that links you to the debt.
If you are still pursued, you may be able to complain to the Information Commissioner’s Office. If the agencies are a member of the Credit Services Association, which operates a code of practice, you can also complain to it.
If you need help email Anna Tims at your.problems@observer.co.uk. Include an address and phone number. Submission and publication are subject to our terms and conditions
