6 min read
Unauthorized hard inquiries
FTC report, identity theft paths, and Experian fraud
If a hard inquiry was not yours, people often treat it as possible identity theft. The usual path differs slightly by bureau. CreditRaccoon helps you prepare a draft; you contact the FTC and bureaus yourself.
Confirm it was not you
Hard inquiries appear when a lender pulls your file for credit. Soft inquiries (account reviews, your own checks) typically work differently. Focus on hard pulls you do not recognize.
If you did apply, or someone in your household did with permission, an inquiry dispute is unlikely to succeed. Honest review saves time.
Identity-theft oriented path
Many people start with a free Identity Theft Report at IdentityTheft.gov, then follow each bureau’s fraud or identity-theft process with that report ready.
Experian often routes unauthorized inquiry concerns through its fraud department by phone. Keep notes: date, agent, and any reference numbers.
You can also prepare a written hard-inquiry dispute draft (CreditRaccoon can help) and mail it with ID and address copies. You still send it yourself.
Quick takeaways
- If you did not authorize the inquiry, start with a free FTC Identity Theft Report at IdentityTheft.gov. Keep a copy for the bureaus.
- TransUnion and Equifax: use each bureau’s identity theft / fraud process (online tools or phone), and bring your FTC report when they ask for it.
- Experian: call and ask for the fraud department, then file your complaint there. Keep the date, agent name, and any reference number.
- You can still mail a written inquiry dispute draft with copies of your ID, proof of residence, and Social Security card. Certified mail is recommended.
- Authorized inquiries you applied for usually stay. Outcomes are not guaranteed.
FAQ
Will disputing remove every inquiry?
No. Authorized inquiries usually remain. Unauthorized or identity-theft cases depend on documentation and each bureau’s process.
Does CreditRaccoon contact Experian fraud for me?
No. You make those calls and mail any letters. CreditRaccoon only helps you prepare drafts and track what you report back.
Related guides
- How to prepare a dispute letter draft - What to include, what to mail, and what CreditRaccoon helps with
- The dispute process - Four rounds you control, plus CFPB escalation
- How to get your free credit report - AnnualCreditReport.com PDFs for Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion
Educational information only. Not legal advice. Outcomes are not guaranteed.