MyCRA Specialist Credit Repair Lawyers

Tag: credit rating

  • Privacy Commissioner releases findings on Telstra mailout error

    Whenever the public are in danger of having their credit file tarnished due to data breaches which can result in identity theft, it is important to warn them.

    Recent news from the OAIC (Office of the Australian Information Commissioner on a botched Telstra mailout has come forth.

    The OAIC today released the findings of its investigation into the Telstra
    mailing error     which resulted in around 60,000 Telstra customers’ personal information being sent to other customers.

    Australian Privacy Commissioner, Timothy Pilgrim opened an investigation after Telstra notified him of the incident in October 2010.

    Mr Pilgrim found that while Telstra did breach the Privacy Act in terms of disclosing personal information of its customers to a third party, it was not due to any failings of the security of its system, but simple human error.

    The investigation revealed that Telstra had a range of security measures in place to protect customer personal information involved in mail campaigns. These measures include privacy obligations in agreements with mailing houses, privacy impact assessments at the outset of mail out initiatives, and procedures to ensure staff handle personal information appropriately during mail campaigns.

    “In this instance, taking into account the range of measures Telstra has in place for mail campaigns, I consider that the one-off human error that occurred does not mean that Telstra failed to comply with its obligation to take reasonable steps to protect the personal information of its customers. Therefore, I consider that Telstra has not breached this particular aspect of the Privacy Act,” the Privacy Commissioner said.

    The Commissioner also noted Telstra’s fast notification of the data breach.

    Mr Pilgrim did say, however, that if an individual complaint came to them following this matter, the complaint would be considered on its own merits.

    “Incidents such as this one highlight how important it is for all organisations to take steps to protect their customers’ privacy. If such an incident does occur, it is best practice to notify the OAIC as soon as possible and take action immediately to prevent further breaches,” he said.

    This incident brings to light a section of Australian privacy law that needs to improve. Luckily, in this incident, Telstra did the right thing and notified its customers and the Privacy Commissioner of the data breach immediately.

    But when the Sony PlayStation data breach occurred in May, Sony did not notify its customers of the data breach immediately, they took about a week. In that time its customers were vulnerable to identity theft, and there was nothing our Government could do as recourse. Our data breach notification laws currently do not require companies to notify its customers immediately following a data breach.

    The Australian Law Reform Commission has made a recommendation for amendments of this law to occur, and the Government is currently considering it.

    The dangers of data breaches

    If the wrong person gets hold of someone’s personal details, they can potentially build a profile of identity documentation that can give them the opportunity to commit fraud.

    Fraudsters who have access to small pieces of specific information on someone can then build on that profile, eventually requesting ‘replacement’ copies of drivers licences and can then access bank accounts, get credit cards, apply for loans, phone accounts, and in some cases, buy property in someone else’s name. There are some identity theft cases where fraudsters have even mortgaged or sold the family home of their identity theft victims.

    Once someone’s identity has been stolen, their credit file is generally tarnished. This credit file blemish will unfortunately haunt the victim for 5 years while the listing/s remain on their credit file. Credit file blemishes generally deny someone access to most credit for the term of the default.

    It is important for everyone to know they can order a free copy of their credit file report every year from one or more of the credit reporting agencies in Australia, Veda Advantage, Dun and Bradstreet and Tasmanian Collection Services.

    Contact MyCRA Credit Repairs for help with repairing credit files following identity theft.

    Image: Luigi Diamanti/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

  • Caught affluenza? How it can affect your credit rating health

    Affluenza is a disease of the 21st Century that can make us sick, and it can make our credit file sick with it –pulling us into a crazy cycle of spending and debt. Many of us are struggling to stay happy under a pile of ‘things’ and a pile of debt.

    The Wikipedia explanation of affluenza refers to it as “a painful, contagious, socially transmitted condition of overload, debt, anxiety and waste resulting from the dogged pursuit of more.”

    It is the disease of consumerism and it is being fuelled by big corporations urging us to buy more, persuading us with clever advertising aimed at selling to our emotions. It drives us to work crazy hours leaving no time for ourselves and our families. It drives up the mental health problems, the suicide rates, the divorce rates, the drug addictions, fraud, the stress related health problems – all these things seem to be a curse of living in the 21st Century in the Western world.

    Recently Fran Sidoti from SavingsGuide.com.au posted an interesting article about this topic titled Affluenza, And What It Might Mean For You. She says it starts by wanting a big house, and then all of those things that go in it, and with it – but that when we have everything, we are still not happy. She suggests we take a step back and employ old-fashioned values like “building a strong family, especially with an awareness of role models like grandparents who wouldn’t recognise affluenza if it bit them. A respect for hard work and the money it earns is crucial, as is emphasis on philanthropy and charity.”

    Australians Clive Hamilton and Richard Denniss’ book, Affluenza: When Too Much is Never Enough, poses the question, “If the economy has been doing so well, why are we not becoming happier?”

    Here is an excerpt from that book:

    “Our houses are bigger than ever, but our families are smaller. Our kids go to the best schools we can afford, but we hardly see them. We’ve got more money to spend, yet we’re further in debt than ever before. What is going on?

    The Western world is in the grip of a consumption binge that is unique in human history. We aspire to the lifestyles of the rich and famous at the cost of family, friends and personal fulfilment. Rates of stress, depression and obesity are up as we wrestle with the emptiness and endless disappointments of the consumer life.

    Affluenza pulls no punches, claiming our whole society is addicted to overconsumption. It tracks how much Australians overwork, the growing mountains of stuff we throw out, the drugs we take to ‘self-medicate’ and the real meaning of ‘choice’. Fortunately there is a cure. More and more Australians are deciding to ignore the advertisers, reduce their consumer spending and recapture their time for the things that really matter.”

    How many of us know someone who has gotten really sick – so sick that they lose everything – the house, the car, the job. If they are lucky enough to survive it, they always seem to have this new-found view of money. They often make that life changing decision to cut back on all those material things. They say they appreciate that the real joy in this world comes from spending time with family and friends and also dedicating some time to themselves.

    A new perspective on credit

    We should think of our credit file as a mirror on our finances. It can reflect our assets, our good history, but it can also reveal our financial shortcomings. It can be a reflection of our inability to stick with something, our disregard for repayments and it shows the financial potholes we fall into that are sometimes impossible to climb out of.

    How healthy are we looking?

    It is perfectly okay to use credit, as long as we make it work for us. We should use it to enhance our lives so that we can spend time with the ones we love, or to really improve our quality of life.

    Maybe we throw that long sought after holiday on the credit card and take the family away? Or take out repayments on an educational course that will change our working lives forever? Or perhaps we do buy a home, but after years of good saving. One that fits all the requirements of what we need, rather than what we want. A home we don’t have to work 24/7 to pay off because it is priced within our means.

    What we shouldn’t do, is spend money we don’t have, on things we don’t need, and ultimately find ourselves with what we don’t want – debt, unhappiness and a bad credit history.

    A bad credit rating can completely change our financial situation. The black marks placed there by creditors show up on our credit file for 5 years. Bad credit can limit our choices and can perpetuate the debt cycle by leading us to choose loans with higher interest rates and more fees, so the struggle to make repayments can be even harder.

    A clean slate

    If we want to try and start again with credit, it may be possible to wipe the slate clean, particularly if our bad credit rating should not be there.  Firstly, we can obtain a  free copy of our credit report from one or more of the credit reporting agencies, Veda Advantage, Dun & Bradstreet and Tasmanian Collection Services (TASCOL). If after checking our credit file we find inconsistencies, we may be a good candidate for credit repair.

    A credit repairer can work with creditors on our behalf to completely clear our credit file of all defaults, clear-outs, writs and Judgments which contain errors, are unjust or just should not be there. This means we no longer have a bad credit rating, but a completely clear credit file, giving us the financial freedom to use credit whenever we need to.

    The rest is up to us.

    Visit MyCRA’s website www.mycra.com.au for more information on credit repair.

    Image: Salvatore Vuono/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

    Image: photostock/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

  • Government survey reveals our fears of identity theft

    A Governement survey on identity theft reveals 9 out of 10 Australians are concerned or very concerned about identity theft and misuse. Rightly so, considering the grave danger it poses to a victim’s financial future through destroying their good credit rating.

    The identity theft survey, details of which were released by Attorney-General Robert McLelland, was an independent survey of 1200 people conducted by Di Marzio Research.

    It also showed that 1 in 6 people have been a victim or known somebody who has been a victim of identity theft or misuse in the past six months.

    The majority of identity theft or misuse occurred over the Internet (58 per cent), or through the loss of a credit or debit card (30 per cent).  Stolen identify information was primarily used to purchase goods or services (55 per cent) or to obtain finance, credit or a loan (26 per cent).

    Current statistics from the Australian Crime Commission, points to identity theft possibly costing the Australian economy $1 billion per year. The other cost that’s not so widely reported is the expense to the many credit files that occurs as a result. People have their lives put on hold with credit rating defaults they are not responsible for, stopping them from obtaining most credit for up to five years.

    More and more of MyCRA’s clients have been through the ringer attempting to have black marks removed from their credit file due to identity theft. They are often unable to obtain even a mobile phone in their name if their credit file contains defaults and it need not be large-scale fraud to amount to a finance decline.

    This survey follows the Government’s introduction of new legislation the ‘Cybercrime Legislation Amendment Bill 2011’ into Parliament last week, which amends several current laws in order to comply with the only international treaty on cybercrime. This was an attempt to come up to speed with other countries in the fight to tackle an international wave of cyber-attacks.

    Once an account remains unpaid past 60 days, the debt may be listed by the creditor as a default on a person’s credit file. Under current Australian legislation, defaults have to remain listed on the victim’s credit file for a 5 year period.

    What is not widely known is how difficult credit repair can be – even if the individual has been the victim of identity theft. Unfortunately there is no guarantee defaults can be removed from their credit file. The victim has to provide copious amounts of documentary evidence to prove the fraud.

    How does my credit file get affected?

    It begins by fraudsters gaining access to a victim’s account details, or personal details. This then allows them to access the victim’s good credit rating.

    Often the victim is unaware their information has been stolen until they apply for credit and are flatly refused. Generally, by the time police become involved, a client may have credit applications as a minimum and possibly defaults, mortgages and mobile phones already attributed to them incorrectly.

    Once an account remains unpaid past 60 days, the debt may be listed by the creditor  Australian legislation, defaults have to remain listed on the victim’s credit file for a 5 year period.

    What is not widely known is how difficult credit repair can be – even if the individual has been the victim of identity theft. Unfortunately there is no guarantee defaults can be removed from their credit file. The onus is on the victim to prove their case and provide copious amounts of documentary evidence.

    What can I do to prevent identity theft?

    In order for people to prevent identity theft affecting their credit rating, the best defence they can take is to get educated. They should learn how their personal information can be put at risk, aiming to keep their personal information as secure as possible, both online and off. They should change passwords regularly, conduct regular virus software updates, and be wary of providing unnecessary information to companies online, just to name a few ways. As instances like the Sony PlayStation  data breach shows, people relying on other companies to do it for them can often result in vulnerability to fraud.

    People should also educate themselves on the latest scams that are going around, whilst also keeping an eye on what’s happening with their credit file, being alert to any changes which may occur.

    People can contact one or more of the major credit reporting agencies, Veda Advantage, Dun and Bradstreet and Tasmanian Collection Services (TASCOL) to request a free copy of their credit file. With Veda Advantage, they can also for a fee, sign up to Veda’s Alert system, which notifies the credit file holder of any changes which occur to their account within a 12 month period.

    If people find they are victims of identity theft, probably the best way to go about removing defaults is to enlist the help of a credit rating repairer, who can negotiate with creditors on their behalf, giving them the best possible chance of having the defaults removed completely from their credit file.

    Contact MyCRA Credit Repairs for more details.

    Image: Louisa Stokes/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

  • End of financial year best time to check our credit file

    Media Release: The end of the financial year is an opportune time for people to check their credit rating and get it in order, according to a national credit repairer.

    Director of MyCRA Credit Repairs, Graham Doessel says if people are reviewing their yearly phone records, bank statements, and credit card statements for tax time, it can be a good idea for them to request a credit report as well from credit reporting agencies,to cross-check any adverse listings which may have been placed on their credit file.

    “The problem with credit reporting in Australia is that many people are unaware of how the system works, and what their rights are. It is important for people to know they can apply for a copy of their credit file for free every year and the end of financial year is a great time to do this, because people already have their paperwork out,” Mr Doessel says.

    He says it is essential for people to know what is said about them on their credit report – as there is opportunity for errors to occur when creditors apply listings to credit files. Even if people believe they have a good payment history, their credit report may still contain errors.

    “Many of my clients have impeccable repayment histories and would have never dreamed they would end up with a default. Let me tell you mistakes do often happen. Sometimes simple human error by the creditor leads to adverse listings put there incorrectly,” he says.

    A small scale study conducted by the Australian Consumer Association (now Choice Magazine) in 2004, revealed a staggering 30% of credit files were likely to contain errors.

    “In our view, there are serious, systematic flaws which are leaving an increasing number of Australian consumers vulnerable to defamation, mis-matching and harassment,” the report said.

    A credit file exists for anyone who has ever been ‘credit active’ and is used by creditors to assess the risk and borrowing capacity of potential borrowers.

    The most common type of adverse listing is a default. Defaults are put there by creditors when accounts have remained unpaid for more than 60 days.

    Defaults remain on a person’s credit file for 5 years from the date of listing, and have the potential to severely impact a person’s ability to obtain credit.

    “Currently, any default can be enough for an automatic decline with most of the major banks. Many lenders are even rejecting loans for excess enquiries such as two in thirty days or six within the year. Some people nmay even be unable to take out a mobile phone plan in their name if they have defaults on their credit file.”

    “It also affects the type of home loan people may be eligible for, the interest rate they are offered and price of establishing the loan. The lending options become more expensive and limited” Mr Doessel says.

    People can contact Veda Advantage, Dun and Bradstreet and Tasmanian Collection Services (if they live in Tasmanoia) to request their free report. A creditor may have listed defaults with one or all of these credit reporting agencies.

    If people find errors, or feel a listing is unjust or shouldn’t be there, they do have the right to have incorrect information rectified.

    Mr Doessel says if people are in a hurry or it seems too difficult, they can use a credit repairer who can work on their behalf.

    “A credit repairer should be able to completely remove offending blemishes from someone’s credit file,” he says.

    Contact www.mycra.com.au for more details on how to check and repair credit files.

    /ENDS

    Please contact

    Lisa Brewster – Media Relations

    Ph: 3124 7133  Mob: 0450 554 007  media@mycra.com.au

    Image: Arvind Balaraman / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

  • Government brings in new laws in war against cyber-crime and identity theft

    The Australian Government yesterday made some swift changes to its laws in a bid to accelerate its effectiveness in fighting the worldwide cyber-crime phenomenon.

    The Attorney-General, Robert McLelland introduced the The Cybercrime Legislation Amendment Bill 2011 into the House of Representatives, which lays down the laws which will include Australia in what is the only binding international treaty on cybercrime.

    Two criminal Acts (the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act 1987 and the Criminal Code Act 1995) and two telecommunications Acts (the Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979 and the Telecommunications Act 1997) will be amended, to allow Australia to comply with the treaty.

    Australia will be joining the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime, of which more than 40 nations have already signed or become a party to the Convention, including the USA, UK, Canada, Japan and South Africa.

    The Convention allows countries to co-operate in investigations to deal with international crimes committed on computer networks, such as online fraud or child pornography offences.

    The Bill will also give Australian police greater powers to force internet service providers to retain data of customers who are suspected to have committed a cybercrime while the matter is being investigated.

    “The increasing cyber threat means that no nation alone can effectively overcome this problem and international cooperation is essential,” Mr McLelland says.

    The speed of the changes follows a wave of recent cyber-attacks on networks around the globe.

    “In the last six months alone, Australia’s Computer Emergency Response Team has alerted Australian business to more than a quarter of a million pieces of stolen information such as passwords and account details, allowing them to rectify and protect against potential attacks,” Mr McLelland says.

    Other noteworthy cyber-attacks which have occurred just over the last few months include attacks on Sony, Dell Computers, the CIA, and the Australian Government.

    What affect will these changes have on the frequency of identity theft in this country, and consequently the instances our credit rating is destroyed due to cyber-crime?

    Some of the internet-generated identity theft is not initiated on Australian shores. The worldwide web provides easy international access, meaning elaborate schemes intended to commit fraud can be generated from any country and impact ordinary Australians.

    Now that Australia is part of the international treaty, our police will have greater powers to access information which may assist in prosecutions or in detection of
    cyber-crime that has come from other countries which are part of the Convention.

    Nationally, the changes made to our Telecommunications laws should benefit in prosecution for identity theft, by allowing the Police to have access to phone and text messages that they previously were not required to be kept by Telcos.

    The new laws also change a bit of the fine print in terms of what are computer offences, which could potentially ensure criminals who previously may not have been prosecuted due to loopholes in the legislation could now be brought to answer.

    Unfortunately, when it comes to our credit rating, prevention is better than cure. When fraudsters use our good name to obtain credit, the bills which come with that credit that go undetected for greater than 60 days generate defaults on our credit file.

    Hopefully this legislation helps to act as a deterrent for cyber-criminals to initiate fraud. But after fraud has occurred, a great deal of work will still need to be done by us on our credit file to clear our good name, regardless of prosecution.

    What can we do to protect ourselves from identity theft right now?

    The Government has a website ‘Stay Smart Online’, which goes through the things individuals can do to ensure they do not become part of these growing statistics.

    The most important messages we should take in are:

    * Keep our virus software up to date, and run regular scans.  We should set it to automatic updates!
    * Keep our personal information as private as possible.
    * Think before we click on links and attachments.
    * Talk about online safety, and educate ourselves and our family about the risks of
    identity fraud.

    If we protect our identity from cyber-criminals, we protect our good name and our financial future.

    We should also make regular checks to our credit file. We are entitled to a free copy of our credit file every year. We should request this file every year to ensure our good name is not tarnished in any way.

    For advice on identity theft and how it can impact our credit file, Contact MyCRA Credit Repairs. We can completely remove defaults from credit files.

     

    Image: Tom Curtis/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

    Image: jscreationzs/ FreeDigitalPhotos.net

    Image: Ambro / FreeDigitalPhotos

  • Identity Theft News: The Latest Warnings and Recommendations

    In this post, we take a snapshot look at the current issues around identity theft crime. If you are new to our blog, the reason we are so passionate about identity theft, is because in Australia and indeed many other countries in the world, it has the potential to destroy our credit rating.

    In Australia, if we are the victims of identity fraud, unpaid debts we have not initiated can mount up in our name and if they remain unpaid more than 60 days they can result in ‘defaults’ being listed on our credit file. Often it is not until we attempt to obtain credit and are knocked back do we realise we have been victims.

    Here’s a look at recent news on this issue:

    The Future for Worldwide Identity Theft Prevention?

    Following the AusCERT Conference late last month held on Queensland’s Gold Coast, there came about a number of recommendations for improving security of our personal information.

    Recently we featured comedian Bennett Arron, who spoke at AusCERT about his experience with identity theft and how it can affect our financial future, and indeed our credit file. This was a great example of the issues individuals currently face when they are victims of identity theft.

    Another noteworthy recommendation to come out of the AusCERT Conference, was featured in a story in online IT publication The Register, and was put forward by Eugene Kapersky, founder of Kapersky Lab.

    Kapersky Lab operates a worldwide IT security company. He advised the conference the world needs an internet ‘Interpol’ – “a global,borderless cybercrime unit that would exist with the support [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][and] cooperation of international law enforcement agencies.”

    He also advised in the future we could be holders of internet passports as online ID. The security software millionaire said an international online identification system could help in the fight against identity theft and the illicit theft of passport documents online.

    Read more about this story ‘Kaspersky wants Interpol for the web’ published in The Register.

    Identity crime is certainly a global problem. Scams coming out of many countries personally affect ordinary Australians every day via the internet.

    It will be interesting to see what recommendations the Government puts forward after the publication of its first ever White Paper on cyber-security in Australia, and whether it will include a plan to lay down some sort of foundation for international cyber-crime law.

    High Profile Company Directors not Immune to IdentityTheft

    Last week it was reported that the Australian Institute of Company Directors had a computer stolen from its offices which contained the personal data of many thousands of its high profile directors and clients.

    Consequently all were warned to be on the lookout for signs of identity fraud.

    Fortunately, according to the AICD, the data on the computer didn’t contain any credit card numbers, bank details or passwords.

    They did warn those involved to be on the lookout for suspicious phone calls or other communications as they did believe the theft was an attempt at identity fraud on its members via the stolen database.

    Read more about this story ‘AICD’s membership data stolen’ published in IT Wire.

    Sometimes, as with the case above, identity thieves don’t necessarily need access to bank account numbers to gain access to our good name. All fraudsters need is perhaps an email address or telephone number and a bit of basic information about us to attempt to then elicit further information from us (known as phishing scams). They can also use the basic information they have to attempt to set up fake accounts, or to request ‘replacement’ copies of ID in our name.

    To keep up to date with the latest scams, visit the government’s SCAM watch website.

    Police warn of new fraud targeting Australian SuperAccounts

    NSW Police have advised of a current scam targeting Super Accounts, where fraudsters are stealing enough information from unsuspecting victims to transfer their Super into self-managed funds which can then be easily accessed by the criminals.

    Fraud Squad Commander Detective Superintendent Col Dyson says “Superannuation fraud…works well because no-one checks their super…victims rarely notice account changes, making it easy for criminals to change mailing addresses.”

    Unfortunately, unlike bank fraud, there is no obligation for superannuation funds to reimburse victims.

    Read more on this story ‘Crooks siphon super funds,’ on CRN Australia’s website.

    This is just another example of how difficult it can be for laws, individuals and institutions to keep up with what the Australian Crime Commission calls the fastest growing crime in Australia.

    This new fraud may not directly impact our credit file, but when there is no reimbursement for the fraud, it can financially cripple us.

    If we are victims of identity theft, we should always report it to the Police no matter how small the fraud. It is only through reporting this crime that real statistics start to be measured.

    We should also check our credit file, and have any black marks that should not be there dealt with by a professional credit repairer. Contact MyCRA Credit Repairs for more information. We completely remove defaults from
    credit files.

    Image: Salvatore Vuono/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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  • What We Can Do to Prevent Identity Theft

    So far this year we have posted about many issues that have arisen concerning the security of our personal information in this age of technology, and the possible dangers identity theft poses for our credit file.

    It is no secret that it is essential to take steps to keep our personal information safe. Why? Because regardless of whether our card/s will be reimbursed should we become victims of fraud, there is still the very real ramification of having our credit file tarnished by any identity fraud – and the inability to obtain credit for up to 5 years can be a huge financial loss.

    Events which have transpired recently have made us all feel quite nervous about who has the potential to use our personal details for purposes of stealing our identity.

    Issues such as the Sony PlayStation data breach, the attacks on Google’s U.S. Gmail account holders and the announcement of almost daily attempts at cyber-attack on Australia’s Foregin Affairs Department (just to name a few) have made us realise that identity fraud is indeed a reality for people in this country.

    A positive to come from these issues is that our Government has decided to step in to give advice via a white paper as to how businesses, government and individuals can make some changes to the internet in the interests of the security of its users.

    What do we do in the meantime? What steps can we take NOW to reduce our chances of becoming victims?

    Recently we read some really great articles from ‘Savings Guide.com.au’ on some practical ways we can all stay safe.

    In their article – “Shopping Online, How to Do it Safely” by Francesca Sidoti, she provides some great tips. We like this one:

    “Choose Your Location. Instinct is a funny thing. You have no hard reasons for why something feels off, it just does. And in this scenario, you should let it be your guide. Just as you wouldn’t hand over money to someone who looks dodgy, you should[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][n’t] enter your details in a site that doesn’t feel right. If something seems amiss, do some research. Google the site, or call the contact number. Be wary as well of clicking on ads. Though they’re usually hosted by legitimate companies, it’s worthwhile keeping a critical eye on everything you are entering personal information into.”

    Francesca also published an article “How to Avoid Credit Card Fraud and Identity Theft,” which provides help with how to use your credit card safely. The two tips below are excellent to remember:

    “Don’t’ give your credit card details out over the phone or email. Unless you’ve initiated the conversation. No legit company would ask for those details over the phone/email.

    Don’t sign blank credit card receipts How often do you actually check the receipt you sign? If your answer is ‘not often’, you need to rethink your approach. Blank sections of a receipt can be used to add extra charges, which you will pay for because your signature will be down the bottom.”

    We have compiled a quick list of some other ways we can prevent what has become the fastest growing crime in Australia:

    1. Keep virus software up to date on our computers. Install automatic updates and perform regular virus scans.
    2. Keep our privacy settings secure on all social networking sites.
    3. Keep our passwords and PIN numbers secure. Don’t carry PIN numbers with our credit/debit cards, change passwords regularly and use a variety of passwords for different purposes.
    4. Check all our credit card and bank statements each time they come in.
    5. Cross-shred all personally identifiable information which we no longer need, rather than throwing it straight in the bin.
    6. Buy a safe for our personal information at home.
    7. Do not give any personal information or credit card details to anyone via phone or email unless we are sure the site is secure, and or we can verify the company details.
    8. Be aware of who gets our personal information and for what purposes. What can these people do with the information they are gathering? For instance, is it really necessary for the site we are registering on to have our date of birth?
    9. Keep up to date with the latest scams by subscribing to the government’s ‘SCAM watch’ website.
    10. Check our credit file for free every 12 months. By requesting a copy of our credit file from one or more of the major credit reporting agencies,Veda Advantage, Dun & Bradstreet and Tasmanian Collection Service (TASCOL) we can be aware of any discrepancies which may need to be investigated. Often it is only through a credit check which comes back with defaults on our credit file do we realise we have been victims of identity theft.
    11. Report any incident of identity theft, no matter how small, or even if we have been reimbursed for the damage – to the Police. The more of us who report identity theft, the more effective will be our Government and Police response to it in the future.

    For those of us who are already identity theft victims, it can be difficult to navigate the current credit reporting system to have the offending defaults removed from our credit file.

    MyCRA Credit Repairs can completely remove defaults from credit files that have errors, are unjust or just shouldn’t be there. Contact www.mycra.com.au for more help.

    <p><ahref=”http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=584″>Image: Chris Sharp / FreeDigitalPhotos.net</a></p>

     

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  • Don’t let a bad credit rating force you into unsuitable finance

    The Age recently reported on a Tribunal hearing involving a well-known finance company.

    The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal found that a motor trader who primarily targets people with bad credit history had a leasing process which was seriously flawed and in urgent need of change.

    The customer in the case lived on a low income, had been through a bankruptcy and suffered from chronic depression. The Tribunal found the company used inaccurate financial analysis, unfair tactics and unreasonable pressure to get the client to sign a contract.

    After the hearing the company was ordered to set aside a car lease and compensate its customer.

    Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/money/borrowing/credit-scoring-hammered-20110607-1fpp2.html#ixzz1OvztZSXi

    The above example may not be a true reflection of all transactions with the motor trader in question. But it does highlight the need for people who find themselves in a situation where they cannot use the major lenders to do adequate research before deciding on alternative finance.

    People with a bad credit rating have their options severely limited when it comes to obtaining finance. Most of the major lenders refuse to lend to someone with a bad credit history – often with good reason.

    A person’s credit history shows their ability to repay a debt. Under Australia’s new responsible lending laws, it would not be ethical to offer further credit to someone who already demonstrates problems with repayments.

    The thing is many people with a bad credit rating still need to buy cars, live in houses and use phones.

    What are the options for someone in this situation?

    Well, it depends on what a person’s credit file reads like. In the situation above where the consumer has a bankruptcy on their file – the options are unfortunately limited.

    But a little more research, perhaps leasing a cheaper car and having a trusted adviser help in negotiations with finance companies, or even going away and thinking about it before signing may have helped the customer in this situation.

    In many other cases, people can take the above option, or they can discover whether they may be suitable for credit repair.

    Credit repair is an option for any person who has a default, writ or Judgment on their credit file which they believe is inaccurate, is unjust or just should not be there.

    A successful credit repair allows the consumer to have the black mark/s completely removed from their credit rating.

    This lending options that they would have had prior to the blemishes on their credit file. So, they can borrow at a lower interest rate with the lender of their choice (provided they meet all other criteria of course).

    This can potentially save them thousands of dollars in interest alone.

    Credit repair is not encouraged as an option for a consumer who truly has a problem repaying debt. This person should look at minimising as much credit from their lives as possible, and possibly entering into some financial counselling, so that when they are able to borrow again, they don’t repeat the cycle.

    However, there are a large number of people with a bad credit rating who are not struggling with repayments. They are simply carrying the bad credit rating unfairly.

    Many people are victims of simple and sometimes complicated errors with billing procedures from creditors, are victims of identity theft, have had joint lending situations go wrong (such as divorce, guarantors etc) or have had the default listed incorrectly.

    Despite all of these very fair complaints many consumers have been unable to settle the account themselves with the creditor and unable to remove the offending default, writ or Judgment from their credit file.

    They are then left to navigate the world of ‘bad credit history’ finance, which can sometimes leave them with more problems than when they started, due to the often high interest rates involved.

    So if people know anyone, or are in the situation themselves where they do have a bad credit rating which shouldn’t be there – it could be good advice to get them to seek out a reputable credit repairer to review their credit file and help them back to financial freedom.

    Contact www.mycra.com.au for more information on credit repair.

    <p><a href=”Image” _mce_href=”http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=879″>Image”>http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=879″>Image: luigi diamanti / FreeDigitalPhotos.net</a></p>

  • What thieves can do with your mail

    Media Release: Australians are warned to keep their letterbox locked and all personal information at home secure if they want to reduce their risk of identity fraud.

    A national credit repairer says mail is a prime target for fraudsters, who can gather enough personal information from it to steal someone’s identity and ruin them financially for up to seven years.

    “Crooks are working in gangs, grabbing mail from letterboxes and even rifling through rubbish bins to find our personal details. The information there can often be enough to request ‘replacement’ copies of identification. Once this is accomplished, they can open bank accounts, obtain credit and even mortgage properties in our name” says Graham Doessel, Director of MyCRA Credit Repairs.

    Mr Doessel says identity theft can often hit twice, because if the fraud is not detected early, it can amount to defaults on people’s credit files which are difficult to just wipe away.

    “First we have to prove we didn’t create the defaults – and that can sometimes be really tricky. But until the matter is resolved, we can be black listed from even simple things like getting an internet connection or mobile phone plan in our name,” he says.

    This comes as NSW Police warn residents of inner-Sydney suburbs to lock their letterboxes after up to 1000 mail items were stolen from letterboxes in the area yesterday.

    Detective Inspector Leanne McCusker says residents need to secure their letterbox the way they would a house.

    “You need to be securing your house,” she said yesterday. “Your letterbox contains a lot of valuable property and your identification.” She also advises residents to know their neighbours and call police if they see someone not from the area acting suspiciously.

    The Australian Crime Commission now sites identity theft as the fastest growing crime in the country, costing upwards of $1 billion to the Australian economy, and possibly affecting at least 500,000 Australians per year.

    Mr Doessel recommends people put a few simple preventative measures in place to reduce their risk of identity fraud at home. “We should install a lock on our mailbox. We should buy a shredder and cross-shred every piece of personally identifiable information we no longer require before throwing it in the bin. We should also keep our personal documents locked away at home,” he says.

    “As far as online security goes, we should keep our virus protection up to date on our computers; change passwords frequently; only use secure sites for credit card transactions and be extremely conservative with our social-networking settings,” he says. He also recommends people obtain a report on their credit file regularly.

    “Often credit file discrepancies can be the first sign we have been victims of identity theft. We should obtain a free credit report to ensure that everything on our file is as it should be. That way if there are any problems, they can be rectified while there is no urgency” he says.

    Under current legislation, Australians can check their credit file for free every 12 months from the major credit reporting agencies Veda Advantage, Dun and Bradstreet and Tasmanian Collection Service. A report is sent to the owner of the credit file within 10 working days. For those who are vulnerable to identity theft, they can pay extra with Veda Advantage to have their file on an ‘alert’ system, which tracks any changes to their credit file that may occur within a 12 month period.

    He says identity theft victims should contact the Police immediately, although he says many of his clients don’t, due to embarrassment or because the fraud may not be a significant amount. “Our government may not have accurate statistics on identity theft numbers, just purely because we don’t report it often enough. But reporting to Police may be an essential step when trying to clear defaults if our credit file has been affected,” he says. He says if people find their credit file has been tarnished, a credit repairer can usually give people the best chance of complete default removal following identity theft.

    “Unfortunately in most cases, attempting to remove the default ourselves can do more damage than good by not understanding the process fully, almost like trying to defend ourselves in court. We might do OK, but we only get one shot at it and if we don’t get it 100% right, we will be unsuccessful. There is no appeal in most cases” he says. “Using a credit repairer usually gives people the best chance of getting defaults, writs and Judgments completely removed from their file if they contain errors, are unjust or just shouldn’t be there. Complete removal gives people back their right to obtain credit in the future,” he says. /ENDS

    Read more

    ACCC IDENTITY THEFT REPORT: Click Here

    Image: Felixco, Inc. / FreeDigitalPhotos.net[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

  • Australians are battling with creditors and agencies over their credit rating

    CREDIT rating defaults are very easy to come by, but not so easy to remove on your own, according to credit repair company MY CRA.

    Director GRAHAM DOESSEL says it would surprise most people that thousands of Australians have black marks against their names, and many are unaware they have them until they apply for credit. When they attempt to remove those blemishes themselves, they are coming up against a brick wall.

    “Every day I deal with people who have experienced difficulty in removing defaults themselves with the credit reporting agencies. Effectively even if the default is not yours, even if you have suffered from identity theft, many times all a credit reporting agency will do is mark the listing as paid.”

    “In these economic times, any black mark will stop people obtaining a home loan with most lenders.  In fact at the moment, even having a few ‘credit enquiries’ on record can be enough for an automatic decline, even if there are no defaults” Mr DOESSEL says.

    There are different types of what may be considered ‘bad’ credit ratings from external administrations and bankruptcies through to credit defaults and even excess credit enquiries. If people have overdue power bills, rent and phone bills of more than 60 days late then a provider has the right to notify you of their intentions to record this default on your credit file.  This default will stay on record for 5 years regardless of whether it has been paid.

    “A couple we worked with recently went to apply for a home loan and were told the loan was denied because they had a default on their credit rating.  They were really surprised as they had genuine savings and what they thought was no debts.  It turned out they had missed a payment of $180 on an electricity bill and the company had listed the default on their credit file even though the bill had later been paid.  They were not notified of this listing”.

    “When they attempted to clear the default they had a terrible time and were eventually told by VEDA that defaults are never removed but can be marked as paid. The couple thought this was not good enough and contacted us (My CRA) to see what could be done.  We were able to step in and actually remove the default.  Luckily the couple were able to purchase a home in the future” Mr DOESSEL says.

    Mr DOESSEL says this is a common complaint amongst his clients “Generally speaking, because people don’t have experience and don’t know the appropriate legislation, the creditors bluff their way out of doing anything. Many clients are jaded wasting months and sometimes missing out on houses, basically getting very frustrated with the whole process”.

    A study conducted by AUSTRALIAN CONSUMER ASSOCIATION (now CHOICE magazine) in 2004 found as much as 30% of all credit files contained errors. Often the defaults have been listed without due process followed and before clients have been notified of the creditor’s intention to list a default.

    Under the current legislation, errors on your credit file can and should be removed. So with the difficulties faced by clients in negotiating with creditors, third party credit file repairers like MY CRA have been sought out by time poor and frustrated clients.

    The process of removing a default, writ or judgment is much easier than doing it alone. The client obtains a copy of their credit file, notifies in writing the black marks they feel are listed incorrectly or unjustly and together with authority forms, forwards it all on to the credit repairer.

    The credit repairer then deals with the appropriate parties and negotiates on a person’s behalf to erase these blemishes.

    Mr DOESSEL says if the default, judgment, writ or other black mark is listed incorrectly, unjustly or just shouldn’t be there at all, provided you are using an experienced and skilled credit repair company, then there is a strong chance it can be erased.

    Currently MY CRA’s had up to a 91.7% success rate in default removal and can be removed from as little as 3 days but average is around 45 – 60 days.

    “For example, we had a client who had a single default with a phone company which was due to a mix up with addresses. They had failed to contact her about it, and it was only when she applied for store credit a couple of months later that she became aware of the default. We were able to remove that default in 4 days for her” Mr DOESSEL says.

    He says if people don’t have the time or patience to deal with creditors and need an absolutely clear credit file, then they would be suitable candidates for MY CRA services.

    The MY CRA website has more information for people who are struggling with their credit file. There are fact sheets on how to go about removing defaults and more information on credit and its consequences in AUSTRALIA today. www.mycra.com.au

    ###

    Please contact:

    Graham Doessel      http://www.mycra.com.au/

    Ph: 07 3124 7133

    246 Stafford Road, STAFFORD QLD.

    Link to info on ACA report:

    http://www.theage.com.au/news/business/record-class-action-possible-against-veda/2007/05/01/1177788141045.html

    About MyCRA.com.au

    MyCRA.com.au is 100% Australian owned and operated and we are based in Stafford, a northern suburb of Brisbane in Queensland.

    My CRA was developed for the sole purpose of giving clients access and ability to work with their Credit File.   This is in order to give them the best chance of getting approval, getting a lower interest rate or just to reduce the upfront fees that can be associated with obtaining credit

    We have more than 30 years combined experience in working with and helping clients with their credit files. We are  the fastest known credit file repair agency in Australia and can often remove judgments in as little as 3 days.

  • Home buyers warned dreams could be shattered by missing bill payments

    AUSTRALIANS applying for home loans are finding simple overdue accounts are coming back to haunt them, with some even being refused finance, according to a national credit rating repairer.

    My CRA’s Director, GRAHAM DOESSEL says a credit rating check can reveal defaults many are not aware of such as small overdue phone bills, electricity bills and rates which may or may not have been settled.

    “It would surprise you how many people there are out there with needless defaults on their credit rating due to unpaid accounts of more than 60 days. It may also surprise you to know these ‘defaults’ can be enough for an automatic decline with some lenders. At the moment, some lenders are even rejecting loans for excess credit enquiries such as two enquiries in 30 days or six within the year” Mr DOESSEL says.

    Research from September 2010 conducted by DUN & BRADSTREET revealed one third of debt referred for collection in the June quarter was amounts under $200.

    “These findings demonstrate that significant portions of Australians are either unaware of the consequences of not paying their bills on time or they are facing quite significant stress and cannot afford to pay these accounts” Dun & Bradstreet’s CEO, CHRISTINE CHRISTIAN says.

    The report also states that the average value of referred debts stands at the highest level in four and a half years.

    Mr DOESSEL says it is extremely important for potential buyers to know there is more to preparing for a mortgage than simply saving the deposit.

    “Your credit rating is as important as your savings record in calculating loan eligibility and borrowing capacity. Having a clear credit record allows you to shop for the best interest rate because you have the financial freedom to choose any bank.

    “At the moment, blemishes on your credit record are viewed unfavourably by most lenders – and defaults remain on your file for 5 years. Never has there been a more important time to understand your credit rating and to keep it looking as healthy as possible” he says.

    MY CRA outlines how home buyers can establish a good track record of credit:

    MAKE REPAYMENTS ON TIME: Repay any bills received by the due date. Bills that are not paid within 60 days may be referred for collection and noted as a default. If people are having trouble paying on time, they should contact the creditor as they may be able to work out a payment plan rather than the creditor listing the non payment as a default.

    USE CREDIT: Having no credit history means there is nothing to calculate and the risk appears high to lenders. Start by borrowing something small. Repaying mobile phone plans, internet accounts, or store credit on time will appeal to anyone checking people’s credit rating.

    HAVE A STABLE ADDRESS: Lenders like to see stability. Furthermore, defaults are easy to come by when bills are sent to the wrong address. If you do travel frequently, consider a trusted family member’s address for all bills.

    APPLY FOR CREDIT WITH CARE: People should only apply for credit if they feel they have a very good chance of being approved. Declined credit applications on a person’s file can hinder their chances of obtaining a home loan. Likewise, people should only apply for credit they have full intention of pursuing. Every application is noted on file, not whether it is approved or not. If a person goes shopping for the right credit and applies everywhere – the lender may consider this person to have been refused credit and therefore a bad risk.

    CHECK CREDIT FILE REGULARLY: People should check their file well before they need to apply for a home loan. That way if there are any problems they can sort it out while there is no urgency, and save themselves embarrassment and disappointment from having their finance declined. The major credit reporting agencies are bound by law to send people a copy of their credit report for free within 10 working days of application.  Or for a fee, Veda Advantage has a service called ‘Veda Alert’ which provides a copy of the credit file, and the person goes on alert to receive notification of any changes to the credit file within 12 months.

    CLEAR YOUR DEFAULTS: If there are defaults, don’t put up with them for 5 years. People can check with a credit file repairer if they can be removed.

    “If people do check their credit file and find defaults, writs or judgements which have been added without a person’s knowledge, have been added incorrectly, unjustly or unfairly there is a good possibility they can be removed by a credit repairer” he says.

    Demand for third party ‘credit repairers’ has grown due to what Mr DOESSEL says is a system fraught with difficulties.

    “Many of our clients have attempted to deal with creditors themselves and have come up against problems and defaults have not been cleared.  Most times the creditor says defaults are never removed and remain on file for 5 years.  The best they can do is mark the listing as paid if the account has been settled.  This may not be sufficient to ensure credit is obtained with some lenders.”

    “Most clients don’t have the time or patience for negotiation with creditors. On cases we take on, MY CRA has had a 91.7% success rate of actually removing the default” he says.

    MY CRA has information for consumers on their website from how to go about obtaining a copy of their credit file, to tips on spotting identity fraud.  For more information go to www.mycra.com.au.

    ###

     

    Links:

    Link to Dun & Bradstreet article:

    http://dnb.com.au/Header/News/Consumer_debt_referrals_rise_to_record_levels/indexdl_6681.aspx

     

    Please contact:

    Graham Doessel       http://www.mycra.com.au/

    Ph: 07 3124 7133

    246 Stafford Road, STAFFORD QLD.

     

    About MyCRA Pty Ltd

    MyCRA Pty Ltd is 100% Australian owned and operated and we are based in Stafford, a northern suburb of Brisbane in Qld.

    My CRA was developed for the sole purpose of giving clients access and ability to work with their Credit File.   This is in order to give them the best chance of getting approval, getting a lower interest rate or just to reduce the upfront fees that can be associated with obtaining credit. My CRA are able to help you get a copy of your credit file and from that determine how we can help repair a credit file.

    We have more than 15 years combined experience in working with and helping clients with their credit files. We are the fastest known credit rating repair agency in Australia. We can often remove judgements in as little as 3 days.

    As Director I [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][GRAHAM DOESSEL] previously owned a very successful mortgage brokerage company “Mortgage Now” before establishing My CRA because I saw a great need in the industry for credit repair.

     

    Please Note: Our previous results of up to 91.7% have applied only to consumer applications and past results are no indication of future performance

    [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

  • Caught in the credit card trap

    CREDIT cards are easy to come by, but not so easy to make work for you. Consumers are warned being caught out by credit cards could cost you your financial future.

    National credit rating repair company Director GRAHAM DOESSEL urges people to educate themselves on credit cards and their credit rating – to avoid paying the price for years to come.

    “Overdue payments on all bills, including repayments on credit cards are the biggest reason for defaults on your credit rating. These defaults can remain on your credit rating for 5 years, and impact your chances of obtaining further credit in the future” he says.

    According to new figures from the RESERVE BANK OF AUSTRALIA, we are sinking into record levels of credit debt. We now collectively owe close to $49 billion, having been approved for 14.8 million credit cards – more than ever before. More than two-thirds of this whopping bill, or $35.5 billion, is accruing interest every day at an average punitive rate of 19.7 per cent per annum. It means Australians are wasting $7 billion a year in interest on credit cards.

    Mr DOESSEL says more education is needed to ensure people are aware of the implications of both applying for and repaying credit debt.

    “The statistics, and our experience shows Australians are struggling with credit. People need to develop the ethos that credit is not something that is granted, it is something that is earned. What they do right now can affect them for at least five years – good and bad” he says.

    5 WAYS TO MAKE CREDIT CARDS WORK FOR YOU

    1. Set yourself a limit and set your credit limit to this – then you won’t be tempted to overstep what you can afford to repay.

    2. Don’t exceed the credit limit.

    3. Don’t pay just the minimum balance on your card. If possible, pay off the entire balance within the interest free period. If you don’t, you will be charged interest right back to the date of purchase on each item thus forfeiting the interest-free period on those PAST purchases. What’s worse, you must pay the balance off in full before you will get any interest-free period on CURRENT and FUTURE purchases. If you have debt that remains on your card month to month you should look at a card that has a lower interest rate. It may not offer an interest free period, but the lower interest rate should save you more in the long run.

    4. Be aware that interest usually applies immediately on any cash advances from credit cards – whether the withdrawal is within the interest free period or not.

    5. Read the fine print on all credit applications and make sure the deal is right for you. Don’t be lured by promises of rewards or other special deals – concentrate on the fees, interest and repayments.

    Mr DOESSEL advises anyone who has ever been credit active to obtain a copy of their credit file and check for any discrepancies. They can do so for free from the major credit reporting agencies – Veda Advantage, Dun & Bradstreet or Tasmanian Collection Services (if you are Tasmanian). This will be provided within 10 working days – or for a fee it can be provided urgently.

    “It is common for people to not even realise they have a default until they apply for a car or home loan and are declined due to a bad credit rating” he says.

    A credit file is compiled on any person who has ever been ‘credit active’. It lists personal details like name and address, but also any times the person has applied for credit, any defaults (overdue accounts), court judgements, writs and bankruptcies.

    “A clear and healthy credit file really is the ticket to financial freedom. It allows people to do things on a whim – travel, borrow money, buy goods and go into business” Mr DOESSEL says.

    If a credit file check does uncover some nasty surprises – it could be possible to repair the damage done by seeking out a reputable credit file repairer.

    If people have any default, writs or judgements which have errors, have been entered unfairly, unjustly or just shouldn’t be there at all, a credit file repairer can help to remove the offending black mark and clear the file – something which people find very difficult to do on their own.

    “Most times a credit reporting agency will tell clients that defaults are never removed, but can be marked as paid. People are then stuck with a dodgy credit rating for 5 years. But they shouldn’t have to put up with it, as it is possible to have many defaults removed. MyCRA has had up to a 91.7% success rate in removing defaults on files we’ve take on. Usually the turn around is 3-21 days” Mr DOESSEL says.

    (Update: turn around times have increased on some files to 45 – 60 days due mainly to the delays in processing from creditors and ombudsmen services.)

    The MY CRA website has more information for people who need advice on their credit file. There are fact sheets on how to go about removing defaults and more information on credit and its consequences in AUSTRALIA today.

    ###

    Links:

    http://au.pfinance.yahoo.com/credit-cards/features/credit_card_tips/index.html http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/australians-hit-record-credit-card-debt/story-e6frea6u-1225988447714 http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/money/money-matters/tips-for-reducing-credit-card-debt/story-fn3hwldr-1225995954494

    Please contact:

    Graham Doessel             http://www.mycra.com.au/

    Ph: 07 3124 7133

    246 Stafford Road, STAFFORD QLD.

    About MyCRA.com.au MyCRA.com.au is 100% Australian owned and operated and we are based in Stafford, a northern suburb of Brisbane in Qld. My CRA was developed for the sole purpose of giving clients access and ability to work with their Credit File. This is in order to give them the best chance of getting approval, getting a lower interest rate or just to reduce the upfront fees that can be associated with obtaining credit.

    My CRA are able to help you get a copy of your credit file and from that determine how we can help repair a credit file. We have more than 15 years combined experience in working with and helping clients with their credit files. We are the fastest known credit rating repair agency in Australia. We can often remove judgements in as little as 3 days.

    As Director I [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][GRAHAM DOESSEL] previously owned a very successful mortgage brokerage company “Mortgage Now” before establishing My CRA because I saw a great need in the industry for credit repair.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

  • Crime storm blows in after Cyclone Yasi

    VICTIMS of CYCLONE YASI are urged to take real and important measures to protect their identities from thieves in the aftermath of the cyclone’s devastation to homes and businesses.

    With homes in absolute ruin and thousands of people still displaced, there is a danger of victims being hit again by identity thieves.

    These fraudsters could pose as insurance people or attempt to remove personal information from homes and businesses while they are vacant and in disarray, according to credit rating repair company MY CRA’s Director GRAHAM DOESSEL.

    “Victims should not be preyed upon again by criminals, but the fact is they are prime targets for identity thieves” Mr DOESSEL says.

    This warning follows the deployment of 35 extra police to NORTH QUEENSLAND following the arrest of six looters in TOWNSVILLE.

    The state’s disaster co-ordinator, IAN STEWART, says there had been 11 reports of looting since CYCLONE YASI hit north and far north QUEENSLAND, including an “opportunistic” break and enter at a pharmacy in CAIRNS during the height of the storm.

    “It really is a disgrace that people would even consider doing this sort of thing at a time when the trauma being suffered by our community is so great,” he said.

    The SOUTH-EAST QUEENSLAND floods produced scammers who tricked victims in to giving their bank details to people claiming they would help them obtain emergency funds. Scammers also claimed to be tradesmen offering to repair flood damage – they requested payment in advance before disappearing.

    MR DOESSEL says cyclone victims may not only be targets for this type of crime, but particularly for other types of looting where thieves obtain personal information from vacant homes and use that information to steal someone’s identity or to claim compensation in their name.

    “People could be at great risk of identity theft, due to their homes being vacant and possibly unsecured for significant parts of the day and night” he says.

    He suggests if displaced victims are unable to secure important documents in their homes at present and are able to retrieve them and store them in a safe and secure place they should do so.

    “Documents like marriage, birth and death certificates, past tax returns and even utility bills could all be stolen and used to appropriate someone’s identity” Mr DOESSEL says.

    The AUSTRALIAN CRIME COMMISSION now sites identity theft as the “fastest growing crime in AUSTRALIA.”

    Compromised financial information can be used directly to attempt to access the victim’s accounts, or be used to obtain credit cards/ loans in the victims’ name.

    Fraudsters have even been known to send SMS and emails from a compromised identity to victims’ friends and associates, asking for money on the victims’ behalf. This often involves a story in regards to the victim being stranded somewhere and requiring the funds urgently.

    Mr DOESSEL says his office has experienced an increase in credit rating repair due to identity theft – from card skimming through to professional gangs who ferret for personal information at a person’s home or in their rubbish bin. 

    “Identity crime hits twice. People are not only ripped off at the time, but their credit rating is destroyed generally for 5 years once defaults are listed on the victim’s credit file. This is regardless of how the defaults got there. A default on a person’s credit file is usually enough for an automatic decline on a home loan” he says.

    The nature of credit ratings in AUSTRALIA, is once a default has been listed on a person’s file – it is very difficult to have it removed. Creditors will generally only mark the listing as paid.

    “Effectively people are robbed of their financial future. The best course of action for most people fighting a default that is unjust, incorrect or just simply shouldn’t be there is to contact a reputable credit file repairer. “

    “A credit rating repairer is generally more aware of the appropriate legislation, experienced at researching case by case and presenting that information in the most effective manner to ensure the best possible chance of having the default removed – as it rightly should be” Mr DOESSEL says.

    People can visit the MY CRA website for more information on identity theft – what to look for, tips on preventing it and what to do if people have been scammed or their identity stolen.

    ###

     LINKS

    http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/police-head-north-to-crack-down-on-theft/story-e6frg6nf-1226000442845

     http://www.crimecommission.gov.au/media/faq/financial_crime.htm

     http://www.smh.com.au/environment/weather/vultures-descend-on-victims-with-scams-20110116-19sm0.html

     

    Please contact:  

    Graham Doessel       http://www.mycra.com.au/

    Ph: 07 3124 7133          

    246 Stafford Road, STAFFORD QLD.

     

    About MyCRA.com.au

     MyCRA.com.au is 100% Australian owned and operated and we are based in Stafford, a northern suburb of Brisbane in Qld.

    My CRA was developed for the sole purpose of giving clients access and ability to work with their Credit File.   This is in order to give them the best chance of getting approval, getting a lower interest rate or just to reduce the upfront fees that can be associated with obtaining credit. My CRA are able to help you get a copy of your credit file and from that determine how we can help repair a credit file.

    We have more than 15 years combined experience in working with and helping clients with their credit files. We are the fastest known credit rating repair agency in Australia. We can often remove judgements in as little as 3 days.     

    As Director I [fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][GRAHAM DOESSEL] previously owned a very successful mortgage brokerage company “Mortgage Now” before establishing My CRA because I saw a great need in the industry for credit repair.

     

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  • Identity Theft the ticking time bomb in Australia

    SAFETY of personal information needs to be taken more seriously in this country, to avoid Australian identity theft statistics rising to the percentages of those in the UNITED STATES, GRAHAM DOESSEL CEO of credit rating repair company MY CRA warns.

    “Identity theft is the curse of the 21st Century and that is becoming more evident in our industry of credit rating repair. There are more and more people needing help with repairing their credit file due to having their identity misrepresented in some way.”

    “With exposure of our personal information greater than ever before, opportunities for fraud are higher than ever” he says.

     This follows a recent investigation into VODAFONE for allegations of possible breaches of privacy by having customer information available on a publically accessible internet site.

     This investigation conducted by the Privacy Commissioner found the allegations were unsubstantiated, but his report, released 16 February did illustrate other areas of concern at VODAFONE in relation to privacy.

     “Vodafone did not have appropriate security measures in place to protect customer’s personal information at the time. Consequently Vodafone was in breach of their obligations under the Privacy Act. I was particularly concerned by Vodafone’s use of shared logins and passwords for staff and the broad range of detailed personal information available to them.” Privacy Commissioner TIMOTHY PILGRIM says.

    Vodafone agreed to review its IT security, and all appropriate staff including employees in retail stores and dealerships will be issued with individual login IDs and passwords.

    Mr Pilgrim said that this case should serve as a reminder to all businesses using customer management systems to ensure that they have robust privacy protections built in.

    The latest AUSTRALIAN BUREAU OF STATISTICS data from a Personal Fraud Survey conducted in 2007 shows over 800,000 Australians were victims of at least one incident of personal fraud in the 12 months prior to interview, with over half of these victims incurring a financial loss.

    Research in 2009 conducted by Galaxy Research for VEDA ADVANTAGE showed 4.4 million Australians were affected in some way by identity theft, compared to 3.8 million in the previous year.

    The AUSTRALIAN CRIME COMMISSION now sites identity theft as the “fastest growing crime in AUSTRALIA.”

    The A.C.C. says compromised financial information can be used directly to attempt to access someone’s accounts, or be used to obtain credit cards, loans or any other credit in the victims’ name.

    Fraudsters have even been known to send SMS and emails from a compromised identity to victims’ friends and associates, asking for money on the victims’ behalf. This often involves a story in regards to the victim being stranded somewhere and requiring the funds urgently.

    Current U.S. statistics point to 8.1 million people being victimized in 2010, according to a report by JAVELIN STRATEGY AND RESEARCH. Although that’s still a huge number, it’s 3 million fewer victims than in 2009.

    So why have the U.S. statistics begun to improve? JAVELIN sites the top reason for the decrease is due to a significant drop in data breaches, or situations in which batches of personal information have become vulnerable to identity thieves.

    The number of breaches last year was down by almost one-third, to 407 incidents, or 26 million records exposed, according to the DataLossDB project. Again, still a huge number, but down – from 604 breaches, or 221 million records exposed, in 2009.

    “We definitely see evidence that the banks and other institutions are taking stronger precautions to prevent data breaches. Data breaches are a big deal. You are eight times more likely to be a victim of fraud if you get a data-breach notice.” James Van Dyke, president and founder of Javelin says.

    He also sites consumer-education efforts as possibly another factor.

    Mr DOESSEL says this demonstrates the importance of vigilance in the war against identity theft.

    “It is so important for Australians to educate themselves on how to keep their information secure, and to demand that any information they are required to give over to any person or company be treated with the utmost privacy” Mr DOESSEL says. 

    “Our message at MyCRA to someone who has found themselves a victim of identity theft is two-fold. Firstly don’t be embarrassed to report it to police – it is only through identity theft being reported that data gets collected and appropriate preventative measures eventually get put in place.”

    “Secondly don’t put up with the damage it causes to your credit file and to your life, get in touch with a reputable credit rating repairer who can help you to clear your credit file and restore the financial freedom you rightly deserve” he says.

    Visit www.mycra.com.au  for more information on identity theft.

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     LINKS

    PRIVACY COMMISSIONER’S STATEMENT:

    http://www.oaic.gov.au/news/media_release_vodafone_omi.html

     

    VEDA ADVANTAGE:

    http://www.vedaadvantage.com/news-and-media/article.dot?id=505933

     

    AUSTRALIAN BUREAU OF STATISTICS:

    http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Latestproducts/1301.0Feature%20Article13012009%E2%80%9310?opendocument&tabname=Summary&prodno=1301.0&issue=2009%9610&num=&view

     

    A.C.C. IDENTITY CRIME STATEMENT:

    http://www.crimecommission.gov.au/media/faq/financial_crime.htm

     

    U.S. STATISTICS:

     http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/02/09/AR2011020906064.html

     

     

  • 7 Reasons a Broker should recommend a credit rating repairer

    When brokers meet clients many times they find that all the finances stack up well for approval, until a credit check is performed and it reveals some defaults that will not get the deal over the line. GRAHAM DOESSEL was a broker with his own company ‘MORTGAGE NOW’ before founding his credit rating repair company MY CRA.

    He nominates bad credit ratings as being the number one frustration for many brokers. “Often times the clients don’t even know they have a bad credit rating. It’s only once the credit check is done that these problems arise – and sometimes unpaid bills for as little as $200 can kill the deal”.

    “A loan with a non-conforming lender is not always viable. Also sometimes the clients aren’t willing to pay the higher interest rates for this type of loan” he says. Sometimes a non-conforming lender is not the only option to take to rescue a bad deal.

    A credit rating repairer works by negotiating on behalf of the client to remove defaults from their credit file; thus clearing the file for any future borrowing. Here’s how a credit rating repairer can benefit these clients and your brokerage.

    1. Saves time Turnaround can be slowed down because the credit file is not perfectly clear. Or if a client really needs to repair their credit rating to get approval, they have two options. They can have the default removed by a credit repairer, or they can take out a series of smaller loans and repay those in order to improve their rating. The latter can take months or years to improve someone’s rating, yet employing the services of a reputable credit repairer may only take a few days – depending on the nature of the default. “In some cases, brokers have recommended My CRA and we have cleared the credit file all within the finance clause of the house contract” Mr DOESSEL says. The credit repairer negotiates on behalf of the client to have the default/s removed from their file. This is due to professional knowledge of creditors, processes and current legislation.
    2. Saves clients It could be possible to rescue those hundreds of clients per year who would not qualify for any loan due to crippling defaults. Although not every client is eligible for credit repair due to the nature of their default –for those who are eligible the success rate is high. The first step is to refer that client to a credit repairer who will assess their situation. “We have a 97.1% success rate in removal for every case we take on” he says.
    3. Saves money Credit rating repair allows brokers to get a better deal for their client. Instead of referring people to a non-conforming lender at a high interest rate (of which they will switch in time and possibly pay exit fees to do so) the client can save thousands by having their credit file cleared. This would allow them to go with a lender at a lower interest rate. The fee they pay the credit repairer is miniscule compared with the thousands they will save on interest and exit fees.
    4. Creates trust In business if someone is willing to really help clients with the best thing for them, they will reap the long term rewards. Sometimes the best thing for people is to start fresh with a clean slate. If brokers are able to offer people the best long term deal for them, then they may have that client for the long term and will be seen as their trusted advisor for life.
    5. Creates referrals Clients will tell others how well they were looked after by not only the credit rating repair company but the broker who referred them in the first place. All business is sent back to the referring broker once the credit file is cleared.
    6. Creates financial freedom A clear record can allow clients to take out not only first mortgages, but can be the catalyst that sets them on the road to borrowing for investment properties; business ventures etc – all using their familiar and trusted mortgage broker.
    7. Educates and empowers If brokers were to recommend a credit check at their first meeting – it could save lots of heartache for the client and time for the broker. “More needs to be done to educate people on their credit rating, how easy it is to get a default slapped on their file and the ramifications of this before they are sitting opposite a broker applying for a home loan” “I tell people they should check their credit file every 12 months, much like they do with their super or bank statements to make sure everything is in order. This will pick up any errors straight away” Mr DOESSEL says.

    For more information on credit repair and testimonials from brokers, please visit http://www.mycra.com.au/

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