Protect Your Identity From Fraudsters issued by the Metropolitan Police Service
The startling truth is that over four million people have been victims of identity fraud in the UK. It is a fast growing crime that has the potential to disrupt our everyday lives and cause significant distress.
If a criminal can obtain your name, address and date of birth, and learn a few simple details such as your mother’s maiden name or a credit card number, they can attempt to steal your identity to commit fraud.
Fortunately, there are some simple steps that we can all take to reduce our risk of falling foul of the fraudsters:
Never reveal personal details, including account details and PIN numbers, to a cold caller, even if they claim to be from your bank or to be a police officer. If in any doubt, always ask for a caller’s name and a contact number and then check with the organisation in question before calling back
Guard your cards. If you lose a card, contact the fraud division of the relevant credit card company. If you apply for a new credit card and it doesn't arrive in a reasonable time, contact the issuer.
Always shred your documents and statements, to ensure that criminals cannot build up a profile based on the information you discard in your rubbish.
If you move house, tell your bank, card issuer and all other organisations that you deal with immediately. Don't forget to ask Royal Mail to redirect any mail from your old address to your new one for at least a year.
Store any documents containing personal details, such as your passport, driving license, bank statements or utility bills in a safe place. In addition, limit the number of documents you carry around with you that contain your personal details. If possible, do not leave personal documents in your vehicle
Be safe online - If you use the internet make sure you have the latest security patches and up-to-date anti-virus software installed.
Social networking sites present particular challenges. Remember that what goes online stays online. Don't say anything or publish pictures that might cause you embarrassment later. As a general rule, if you wouldn't say it to your boss or your grandmother, don't say it online
National Identity Fraud Prevention Week is a nationwide effort to help in the battle against identity fraud, and valuable resources for both residents and businesses can be found at the dedicated website www.stop-idfraud.co.uk/
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