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Tip : Protecting your Identity

You personal details can be very valuable to criminals, they can use them to open bank accounts, get credit cards, loans and benefits in your name. They are after documents in your name, such as a driving licence or a passport or documents that include your name, date of birth, address, National Insurance (NI) number or and bank and credit card details.

Simple Measures to help protect your identity:

• Never give personal, account details or PIN numbers to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly, either by phone, post, email or in person. Banks will not ask for you to confirm your details in emails or ask for PIN’s.
• Destroy unwanted documents that contain personal details or receipts with your credit card details. Use a shredder.
• If your passport, driving licence or credit card has been lost or stolen, report it to the issuer immediately.
• Use one of the main credit reference agencies to get a copy of your personal credit file This will help you to find out if someone else is applying for credit in your name.
• 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.
• Check bank and credit card statements as soon as they arrive and report any unfamiliar transactions to your bank or credit card companies.
• On the internet, always use a different password for each account. Do not use family names or dates of birth as passwords. Make sure your computer has up-to-date anti-virus software

Supported by Crimestoppers

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