Identity fraud
What is it?
Identity fraud involves fraudsters obtaining key pieces of personal information that they use to pretend to be you. Fraudsters use these personal details to obtain financial services products in your name such as credit cards, loans, state benefits, mortgages and documents such as driving licences and passports. Alternatively fraudsters can use your information to gain access to your existing accounts.
How to protect yourself
Help keep your identity safe by following these steps:
- Always keep important personal documents, plastic cards and chequebooks in a safe and secure place. Without access to this information a criminal will find it very difficult to pretend to be you.
- Don't share personal information unless you are entirely confident you know who you are dealing with.
- Store your statements, receipts and documents that contain information relating to your financial affairs safely and always shred them when you dispose of them.
- Carefully check bank and card statements, as soon as they arrive. If you find an unfamiliar transaction contact your card company or bank/building society immediately.
- Cancel any lost or stolen credit or debit cards immediately.
- Your post is valuable information in the wrong hands. If you fail to receive a bank statement, card statement, utility bill or other financial information contact the supplier.
- Never give out any personal information to unidentified individuals or organisations who contact you by phone, email or face-to-face.
What to do if you have been affected
If you suspect you have been a victim of Identity fraud, you should call us immediately on 1800 800 310 during working hours (9am to 5pm, Mon-Fri) and advise us what has happened.