IDENTITY THEFT occurs when an individual's or company's personal or confidential information is obtained by another person without their knowledge.

IDENTITY FRAUD happens when criminals use this information fraudulently to obtain credit, goods or other services in that person's or company's name.

HOW TO SPOT IDENTITY FRAUD
Victims of identity theft often do not realise their identity has been stolen until it is too late. Here are some useful tips to help you spot identity fraud as soon as it happens.

• Card statements or bills arrive late or not at all
• Unusual transactions appear on your credit card or bank statements
• Companies contact you about new accounts or services about which you have no knowledge
• You are unexpectedly refused credit cards or store cards

HOW TO PREVENT IDENTITY THEFT
Here are some useful tips to help you protect your identity

Avoid "Auto Complete" software when you fill out an online form. The software remembers your personal details, which makes it easier for thieves if they access your PC.

Beware of companies contacting you unexpectedly and asking for personal information. Ask for a name and contact number and verify this with the organisation before calling back.

Check website URLs to ensure they are spelt correctly as it is possible to be redirected to a similar name, fraudulently. Add websites to your favourites folder so there can be no mistake.

Regular monitoring of your credit report will alert you if someone has been using your identity ensuring you can stop the fraudster quickly. Obtain a copy of your credit report from Callcredit, Equifax or Experian.

Protect your cards: Minimise the number of cards you carry. Contact your card company if you lose a card or if a new credit card doesn't arrive. Sign and activate new cards immediately.

 

* A recent WHICH? report found that 1 in 4 people had been or believed they knew someone who had been a victim of ID Fraud.