Mixed credit file: someone else’s information on your report

Mixed file or identity theft?

A mixed file describes information associated with the wrong person. Identity theft involves someone using your identity without permission. An unfamiliar name or account can warrant either investigation; do not assume the cause before the lender and bureau check it.

Check personal information and accounts together

Get both full reports and mark unfamiliar names, addresses, dates of birth and accounts. An old address that is genuinely yours is not necessarily an error. Identify the exact field that is wrong and the accurate replacement.

Record the account ending, lender and report date for every unfamiliar account. Keep correct accounts separate so your request is not interpreted as a request to remove your entire history.

Ask for separation and investigation

Write to the affected bureau explaining that the listed information belongs to someone else or cannot be identified as yours. Ask it to investigate the association, correct inaccurate identifiers and confirm the affected accounts in writing.

Provide identity and address evidence only through verified official channels and according to the recipient’s requirements. Do not post credit reports, identity documents or full account numbers publicly.

If fraud is suspected

Contact the lender using independently verified contact details and ask it to investigate the account. Review FCAC’s fraud guidance, including fraud alerts. Keep fraud reports and case reference numbers with your evidence.

Check the outcome across both files

A change on one bureau does not establish a change on the other. Compare fresh reports with your original list of errors. If information remains associated with you, state which entry the investigation missed and supply the relevant evidence again.

Official guidance

• FCAC: checking your credit report for errors and fraud

Prepare your dispute

• Document checklist
• Canadian dispute letter template
• Check whether an item may be disputed