Consumers urged to take ID theft precautions

Thu 22 Nov 2007 5pm

British consumers have been advised to take care with their financial details and be vigilant over who can access their data in order to prevent identity theft.

External affairs director at Equifax Neil Munroe said that the key to beating identity fraudsters is "all about prevention rather than cure".

With this in mind, he urged people to check their bank statements and bills regularly, shred any unwanted documents containing sensitive information and use a secure computer with the latest anti-spyware software.

Mr Munroe stated: "There are gangs who are paid to go rifling through bins and there are opportunists who will pick up information."

Speaking about potential targets for identity criminals, he added: "A fraudster is looking for someone with a good credit rating, so someone with a reasonable level of income and a reasonably good credit status."

Experian released a report in 2006 which stated that one in four UK consumers have been victims of identity fraud.

All information and material on this website is for information only and should not be construed as advice designed
to meet the needs and the circumstances of a particular customer, please seek professional guidance as appropriate.

© Copyright 2006-2007, Trumpo Limited. All rights reserved. Trumpo and the "Trumpo" logo are registered trademarks of Trumpo Limited.