Identity theft is one of the most damaging types of crimes
in existence. It normally takes place when an individual
illegally obtains another person's personal data and
information. This criminal then takes the information,
assumes the victim's identity, and uses it to carry out a
variety of crimes. With a person's personal information
compromised, a criminal has the ability to use the victim's
personal information to create credit card and charge
accounts, open bank accounts, and apply for loans,
passports, government benefits and licenses.
What makes identity theft so particularly heinous is the
length of time and the amount of money it takes to clean up
the damage that this type of fraud creates. Credit card
companies and banks have created safeguards against
identity theft and financial fraud, but they cannot do much
to repair a person's credit, reputation, and general
state-of-mind after the fraud has taken place.
Most criminals gain access to an individual's personal
information by looking through the trash or by convincing a
person to simply hand over their information, either
through a phone or an email scam. Individuals who wish to
avoid becoming the victims of identity theft should
consider the following suggestions:
Shred your documents - a good strip-cut or cross-cut
shredder can make it difficult for any criminal to gain
access to any sensitive documents that have to be
discarded. Today, there are even paper shredders available
that have the ability to shred credit cards.
Check your credit file often - too many times, individuals
are simply unaware that their identity has been stolen
until it is too late. To avoid any problems, check your
credit file often. Looks for any accounts or credit
applications that look unfamiliar. Report any problems to
the proper authorities immediately.
Keep track of your mail - individuals living in large
housing complexes are more like to have their mail stolen
than anyone else. If an important personal document is
being mailed to you, consider having in mailed to a safer
address, or if possible, arrange for a personal pick-up of
the document. The Royal Mail Customer Enquiry Line is a
good source for reporting any irregularities with your mail
delivery.
Report address changes - any time you move or change
addresses, report the change to your creditors, banks, and
any other organization that you receive sensitive personal
documents from.
Be careful with your credit cards - if you have to give out
personal credit card information over the phone or online,
be sure it is safe to do so. Make sure that online stores
and sites are secure. Ensure that the area around you is
also secure if you are providing your personal information
over the phone or in public.
Do not carry any unnecessary documents on your person.
Store them away in a safe place.
Report any lost or stolen documents to the proper
authorities immediately.
Shred any personal documents before discarding them.
Keep track of your credit card statements and report any
unfamiliar charges r transactions to the company
immediately.
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Learn more about what to do about identity theft by
visiting the dedicated identity theft and fraud prevention
website:
http://www.national-identity-fraud-prevention-week.co.uk
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