Victims of identity theft often do not realise their identity has been stolen until it is too late. Here are some useful tips to help you spot identity fraud as soon as it happens:
- Card statements or bills arrive late or not at all.
- Unusual transactions appear on your credit cards, bank statement or credit file.
- Companies contact you about new accounts or services about which you have no knowledge.
- You are unexpectedly refused credit cards or store cards.
If criminals find out your personal details, they can use them to open bank accounts or get credit cards, loans and state benefits in your name.
Criminals may also attempt to obtain documents in your name, such as a driving licence or a passport. Information that is helpful to criminals includes your name, date of birth, national insurance number and bank and credit card details.
Tips
1. Destroy unwanted documents that contain personal details before you dispose of them.
Use a shredder.
2. If your passport, driving licence or credit card has been lost or stolen, report it to the issuer
immediately.
3. Get a copy of your personal credit file from one of the three credit reference agencies.
This will help you find out if someone else is applying for credit in your name.
4. If you move house, tell your bank, credit card companies and all other organisations
with which you do business. The Royal Mail's redirection service can ensure that your
post arrives at your new address.
5. Check bank and credit card statements as soon as they arrive. Report any unfamiliar transactions
to your bank or credit card companies.
6. Never give personal or account details to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly, either
by phone, post, e-mail or in person.
7. If you use the internet, always use a different password for each account. Do not use family
names or dates on birth as passwords.
8. Store any documents carrying your personal details in a safe place.
9. If you use a central or communal postal delivery point, such as in a block of flats, make
sure your mail is secured until you collect it.
10. Limit the number of personal documents you carry around that contain your personal details.
If possible do not leave personal details in your vehicle.
For more information go to the Identity Theft website.
Page last updated/reviewed 1st February 2010 |
