There are a number of practical steps that you can take to help to prevent and protect yourself against identity theft:

• Check your credit report on a regular basis. If it reveals any suspicious transactions (new accounts, credit searches etc) then contact the lender concerned and ask them for details of the transaction.


• Alternatively you could subscribe to a credit file monitoring service where your credit file will be monitored for you and you will be told whenever something changes.


• Destroy all receipts and personal details on documents before disposing of them. If possible shred them before throwing them away.


• Keep personal documents hidden or locked away at home to prevent burglars gaining easy access to them.


• Limit the documents you carry around with you and try not to leave personal documents in your vehicle.


• Don't share personal information unless you are confident that you know whom you are dealing with. This includes telephone callers, websites or emails requesting that you re-register your personal details with a 'trusted' site.


• Never disclose your Personal Identification Number (PIN) or your online passwords to anyone. No major provider will contact you and ask for such details.


• If you move house make use of the Royal Mail Redirection service for at least one year and inform your back/credit card companies of your new address immediately.


• Keep a secure list of your card numbers and the 'lost & stolen' contact numbers for the relevant companies in one place. Alternatively join a card protection scheme (most credit card companies will put you in touch with their preferred supplier).






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