ID theft protection needed now, says smile
Published On 17 October 2006
The incidence of identity theft in the UK is on rise, which is why internet bank smile has published some tips to help protect consumers against becoming victims.Research marking National Identity Fraud Prevention Week this week has found that a quarter of adult Britons have either been a victim of ID theft or know someone who has.
But consumers can take preventative measures to ensure their personal details are protected, says Allan Brown, the marketing manager at smile.
And a few easy steps "could make a real difference", he adds.
Shredding all documents, including receipts, bank statements, bills and even junk mail could go a long way in ensuring your personal details are kept safe.
People should also be fierce about keeping their login details, passwords, pin codes and cards out of sight, says smile.
By checking bank statements rigorously, potential security breaches could be picked up and acted upon sooner rather than later.
ID fraud is costing the UK economy some £1.7 million a year, according to a report earlier this year by the Home Office.
