With identity theft on the increase, and over 100,000 people falling victim each year, it’s alarming to think that all a criminal needs to get started is your name and address! So what measures can you take to make life more difficult for them?
It’s estimated that 40% of rubbish bins contain enough personal details for identity theft, so you should shred all unwanted documents and letters which contain personal data.
When you move house, tell all relevant organisations your new address and use the Post Office's mail forwarding service for at least six months. Keep an accessible record of emergency numbers so that if your credit or debit cards are stolen you can cancel them immediately.
Be very careful about revealing personal details to people. If anyone contacts you by phone, post or email asking for personal information or bank account details, do not give them unless you’re completely certain that the request is genuine.
If you suspect that you've been a victim of identity theft, ask for a copy of your credit file from one of the main credit reference agencies. The main three and their phone numbers are: Experian - 0870 241 6212; Equifax - 08700 100 583; Call Credit - 0870 060 1414.
Also visit the Home Office website at: www.identitytheft.org.uk
