Be on the look out
You may have become a victim of identity theft if:
- You have lost or had stolen any important documents such as passports of driving licence.
- Post you are expecting has failed to turn up or if you are receiving no post at all.
- Items have appeared on your bank statements that you do not recognise.
- You applied for a state benefit to be told that you are already claiming.
- You receive bills, invoices or receipts for goods and services that are addressed but that you have not asked for.
- You have been refused a financial service, such as a credit card or loan, despite having a good credit history.
- A mobile phone contract has been set up in your name without your knowledge.
- You have received letters from solicitors or debt collectors for debts that aren’t yours.
What can be done to protect yourself.
- Never disclose your credit, charge or cash card PIN number to anyone.
- Never respond to anyone for a request from a ‘supposed’ Bank or other authority requesting confirmation of your PIN, your personal information or the security code. Your bank or the police will never ask you to disclose your PIN.
- Make sure your computer has an up to date anti virus software and firewall installed.
- Keep all your personal documents in a safe place, preferably in a lockable drawer.
- Check statements as soon as they arrive. Contact your bank if there are any transactions that you do not recognise.
- Most importantly, never casually throw away documents such as bills, bank statements, receipts or any unwanted post in your name. Always shred unwanted documents using a Paper Shredder.
DON’T BIN IT – SHRED IT!
