Top tips to prevent identity theft
by Sarah Orrill
29/12/10 in Identity Fraud/Theft |
Resolving the consequences of identity theft can be stressful, time consuming and costly. That's why prevention is better than cure. Identity theft can take many forms, so it's important to be vigilant on many fronts.
To help you out, here's my top tips to help you keep your personal details safe from fraudsters.
Credit report checks
By regularly checking your credit report you will be able to detect the early warning signs of identity fraud.
Tackle phishing
When you want to log on to your bank and other membership websites, make sure you do so by typing the web address into your browser, rather than clicking on a link in an email. It could be a bogus email, otherwise known as phishing, leading you to a false site where your details can be accessed by fraudsters.
Check that there's a padlock symbol on any web page where you are asked to enter personal details.
Beat the burglars
Keep your personal documents, bank statement and bills safely out of sight and preferably locked up in a home safe. If you are ever a victim of burglary, check to ensure that your personal documents have not been taken.
Monitor your mail
Statements and bills contain a wealth of personal information that is useful to criminals. Note when your bills and statements usually arrive every month so if they don't turn up on time you can contact the issuer to see if they have been sent. Also confirm that the company has the correct contact details for you, since fraudsters may have changed your address or had your post redirected.
If you stop receiving mail for any length of time, contact Royal Mail to see if a redirection has been placed on your address. If you move house, make sure you redirect all of your mail to the new address.
Skimming scams
Be alert for skimming devices that are used to read the personal details stored on your card. If you notice anything unusual about a cash machine, do not attempt to remove any device or use the machine. Instead report it to the bank. Always protect your PIN number at tills and cashpoints, making sure no-one is looking over your shoulder. Never let your card out of your sight when paying in shops or restaurants. It only takes a few seconds for it to be picked up and skimmed by a criminal.
Shred it
Shred any paperwork that contains your name and address or signature, including junk mail, before you throw it away.
Deceased fraud
If a member of your family passes away, make sure that you close down any accounts or memberships they leave behind. That way they can't fall into the hands of identity thieves. Keep an eye on any post that is addressed to the deceased person. If you do receive anything to suggest that a fraudster has assumed your loved one's identity, contact the companies concerned and the police immediately.
Unwanted attention
Never give away any personal details to unsolicited visitors, charity collectors, "researchers" in the street or people who telephone your home. Always check whether people are who they claim to be before giving any information. Fraudsters may try to convince you they are calling from banks or other companies in order to falsely obtain your personal details.
Savvy surfing
Your personal details are particularly vulnerable online, where they may be accessed by many people. Social networking sites in particular are a rich source of personal information for fraudsters. Be wary of publishing any identifying information on these sites, particularly things like your phone number, pictures of your home, your address, birthday or full name.
When shopping online, keep your passwords safe at all times and change them regularly. Ensure that your computer has up-to-date security software installed and only use sites that provide secure payments. Never use shared computers or public wi-fi zones for online banking or shopping.
Thwart the thieves
Keep handbags and wallets safe from thieves. Try not to keep all your cards in the same wallet or purse and avoid carrying them all with you at the same time. Never let them out of your sight. Also, avoid carrying important documents such as your passport or driving licence unless you have to - and never carry them in the same bag as your wallet.
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