Identity fraud is when a person’s personal information is used by someone else without their knowledge to obtain credit, goods or other services fraudulently.

How your identity can be stolen

• There are a number of ways identities can be stolen, for example:
  
  Through internet sites
  Phishing (identity theft through email)
  Wallet or purse theft
  Card skimming
  Corporate identity theft

And it’s not just something that happens to individuals. Businesses and companies are at risk of corporate identity theft.

Ways to protect yourself

• You can protect your identity by:
  
  Being vigilant
  
  If someone contacts you unexpectedly and asks for personal information or account details, even if they claim to be from your bank, the police or local council, get their name and contact number and check with the organisation before calling back.
  
  Guarding your cards
  
  Keep the information and cards you carry in your wallet to a minimum. If you lose a card, contact your credit card company immediately. If you apply for a new credit card and it doesn't arrive in a reasonable amount of time, contact your bank. Watch cashiers and make sure you can always see your card when paying in shops and restaurants. When you get a new card, sign it in permanent ink and activate it immediately.
  
  Check your credit report at credit reference agencies
  
  Check your credit report regularly to make sure no accounts or credit have been illegally set up in your name.
  
  Keep your documents safe
  
  Store documents containing personal details (passport, driving licence, bank statements or utility bills) in a safe place. Limit the number of documents you carry around with you that contain your personal details. If possible, do not leave personal documents in your car.
  
  Shred all documents
  
  Shredding all documents containing personal or financial information ensures criminals cannot build up a profile from the information you throw away.
  
  Protect your post
  
  Fraudsters may try to redirect your mail. If you think your mail is being stolen or redirected without your knowledge, call Royal Mail Customer Care on 08457 740 740.
  
  Put outgoing mail in post office collection boxes or at your local post office.
  
  Update contact details
  
  If you move house or change phone numbers tell all relevant organisations. Use a mail forwarding service for at least a year to make sure all post is redirected. This reduces the chance of your personal information getting into the wrong hands.
  
  Stay safe online
  
  Make sure you have the latest internet security patches and up-to-date anti-virus software installed on your computer.