Identity theft: stealing your name

Consider how easy it is to obtain information about you. A copy birth certificate and driving-licence, public records like the the Land Registry, Companies House and the Electoral Roll and the fraudster has got enough to make your life a misery.

A birth certificate eg , will supply your mother's maiden name .

Identity thieves often get your mail redirected, apply for credit-cards in your name and your real address using the former address on the application. Suddenly Mobile phone accounts, loans, overdrafts - all can happen in your name.

Protecting yourself against Identity thieves.

Be careful when you give private financial information to anyone. Consider do they really need this and why are they asking for it. Tear up or better, shred documents like credit-card slips, statements etc.

Experian and Equifax charge £2.00 allowing you to apply for your own credit-reference files. These files will show any applications for credit immediately report anything you can see is doubtful. For more information on see our page on how to obtain your Credit files

Do not hand over your credit or Debit card in a restaurant or store get them to bring the machine to you, or go the machine.. When entering your PIN put your free hand over the keypad. Do NOT be embarrassed about appearing to regard anyone in the immediate area as suspicious.