Victims of identity fraud can now benefit from improved help and advice following the launch of a ‘one-stop service’ designed to simplify the credit restoration process.

Under the new system those affected by identity theft will only need to make one call to one of the UK’s three leading credit reference agencies, CallCredit, Equifax and Experian.

The reference agency will then contact the remaining two and all three will work together to restore a victim’s credit file.

Previously, victims of identity fraud were often forced to spend a large proportion of their time chasing the relevant parties to resolve the issue. However, it is hoped the new system will relieve victims of this burden.          

The National Consumer Council (NCC) has welcomed the move.

‘The joined-up approach taken by the three agencies is a welcome step forward and we fully support this initiative. It simplifies the whole process of sorting out the mess left behind by fraudsters and helps victims get their finances back on track,’ said Anna Fielder, senior policy advisor for the NCC.

Identity fraud is one of the fastest growing crimes in the UK. According to Home Office statistics an estimated 100,000 people are affected by the offence every year, leading to annual losses of more than £1.7 billion.