Identity theft protection guidelines

How to prevent identity 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 our brief guide to keeping your personal details safe from fraudsters.

Credit report checks

By regularly checking your credit report online you will be able to detect the early warning signs ofidentity fraud. The report summarises all financial activity in your name, so you can quickly spot if there's something amiss.

Tackle phishing

When you want to log on to your bank and other membership website, 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. You can click on the padlock to view the site's security certificate. If you get a call from someone asking for your password, account information or other personal details, refuse and say that instead you will call the company they claim to represent using a trusted phone number to confirm who they are.

Beat the burglars

Keep your personal documents, bank statement and bills safely out of sight and preferably locked up in a home safe. Secure your home against break-ins and fit a good-quality burglar alarm. If you are ever a victim of burglary, check to ensure that your personal documents have not been taken.

Monitor your mail

Your personal mail is a prime target for fraudsters. Statements and bills contain a wealth of personal information that is useful to criminals. Make a note of when your bills and statements usually arrive every month. If they don't turn up on time, 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

Don't let criminals get hold of any personal details from documents they might find in your rubbish or recycling bins. Shred any paperwork that contains your name and address or signature, including junk mail, before you throw it away. Receipts can also be valuable to fraudsters, so shred those as well. You can register with the Mailing Preference Service at www.mpsonline.org.uk to limit the amount of junk mail you receive.

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

Handbags and wallets are a rich source of personal information for thieves. Take particular care to keep them safe. 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.

Identity protection from the experts

If you want expert help to keep your identity safe - and to quickly resolve the consequences if the worst happens - get some professional protection with CPP Identity Protection.