A Somerset MP is urging urgent reform to tackle identity theft after a local resident was burdened with over £45,000 in fraudulent bills linked to a business opened in their name without consent. Gideon Amos, MP for Taunton and Wellington, says this incident reveals a significant loophole in UK law that leaves victims vulnerable.
The victim, referred by Citizens Advice Somerset to Mr Amos, discovered in early 2023 that their identity had been hijacked to set up a business they never authorized. The shocking revelation emerged only after they received a council tax bill for thousands of pounds attached to a dissolved company they had no involvement with.
Subsequent investigations uncovered forged lease agreements and additional fraudulent activities, including demands from an energy supplier. The victim’s credit rating was severely damaged, complicating efforts to secure a mortgage.
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Despite reporting these crimes to Action Fraud, the national fraud reporting centre, the individual was told that identity theft itself is not considered a recordable crime by the police unless direct financial loss is suffered by a third party. Citizens Advice argues that this outdated legal technicality ignores the significant real-world impact on victims.
In a letter to Mr Amos, the charity stated, “Although the perpetrators didn’t obtain credit themselves, they made our client liable for debts they never incurred. Without identity theft being officially classified as a crime, police investigations and victim support remain inadequate.”
Responding to the case, Mr Amos contacted the implicated energy company requesting cancellation of the fraudulent debt. He also appealed to the Minister for Policing and Crime Prevention to push for legislative changes, highlighting the financial harm and lasting credit damage victims endure.
The Home Office acknowledged the gravity of such cases. Minister of State for Fraud Policy Lord Hanson of Flint confirmed that an Independent Review of Fraud Offences is underway to evaluate the need for a dedicated identity theft offence. A new fraud strategy is also being crafted to combat criminal activity and enhance victim support.
While these developments are promising, both Citizens Advice and Mr Amos continue advocating for stronger laws. “This case exposes how easily personal data can be exploited,” said Mr Amos. “We need legal protections that truly reflect the dangers of identity fraud and shield victims from its consequences.”
Thanks to the MP’s intervention, the energy provider agreed to wipe the disputed charges after reviewing the forged documents and the Action Fraud report. The victim’s credit rating has been reinstated, enabling them to regain financial stability after years of hardship.
“Identity theft traps people in a nightmare where they appear responsible for debts they never created,” Mr Amos added. “Since my election, I have assisted over 8,000 constituents and am relieved to have restored justice for this particular resident who suffered greatly.”