EQUIFAX BACKS HOME OFFICE ID FRAUD INITIATIVE
Consumer Awareness Campaign Launched To Halt Rise in ID Theft
London, February 2nd 2006 – Equifax, the leading instant online credit information provider, has joined with the Home Office to support a major initiative to tackle the increasing threat of identity theft.
A recent web survey conducted by Equifax involving over 700 respondents illustrates the anxiety amongst consumers regarding this issue. 77% of those that responded having purchased their statutory £2 report claimed to be concerned that they may be at risk of identity theft, suggesting that there is a very real need to educate consumers in order to reduce the risks of identity fraud and to help protect their identity. Equifax believes that there are a number of simple actions consumers can take to prevent themselves falling victim to this growing crime.
Neil Munroe, External Affairs Director, Equifax, comments, “Our figures demonstrate that more needs to be done to educate individuals in order to clamp down on ID fraud. We believe self-help is a key part of the process, and that is why we are pleased to be involved in this consumer awareness initiative. The ‘Identity Fraud – Don’t Become a Victim’ campaign has been designed by the Home Office Identity Fraud Steering Committee to create awareness amongst consumers of the threat of identity theft and fraud and to provide them with a single authoritative source of information on how to protect themselves from this type of crime.
“Crucial to preventing ID fraud is an understanding amongst consumers of the precautions they should be taking to ensure they don’t become a victim. From shredding documents that have their personal details, to keeping a close eye on their credit report, consumers can beat the criminals.”
Home Office Minister Andy Burnham launched a leaflet and poster campaign earlier in 2005. Materials, which advise consumers on how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft and what to do if they do become a victim, are being distributed through Police Stations, Citizen Advice Bureaus, Libraries, the UK Passport Service and DVLA offices across England and Wales.
Equifax is also committed to making the leaflet available to the public through a number of channels. It will be issued with all credit reports that are posted to consumers and it will be provided when consumers sign up to the CIFAS Protective Registration Service, which is administered by Equifax on behalf of CIFAS. For online credit report users the leaflet will be available to download from the Equifax website: www.equifax.co.uk
As Andy Burnham, MP said: “Identity fraud is often a silent crime. Many victims don’t realise they have been targeted until well after the crime has taken place or when they apply for credit.
“The Home Office is committed to reducing identity fraud and is working with a range of organisations that are involved in helping consumers to protect themselves from this type of crime.
“I welcome Equifax’s decision to work with the Home Office to tackle this growing problem and am pleased that Equifax will be providing victims of identity fraud, and those that apply for their credit report, with a copy of the identity theft leaflet.”
* More than 700 MyEquifax customers responded to the MyEquifax survey on ID Fraud, October 2005
Top Tips to Prevent ID Fraud
- Check your credit report frequently. This is the most effective way of identifying fraudsters using your ID. Go to www.equifax.co.uk
- Shred statements, bills and direct mail. These contain vital personal information.
- Don't put receipts from cash points in bins near the machines. Always tear them up before you throw them away.
- When you move home redirect your mail to your new address by contacting Royal Mail Redirection Service on 0845 7740 740, visiting your local branch or www.royalmail.com
- Beware of disclosing confidential personal and financial information to strangers face to face, on the telephone or on the Internet. Never reveal your passwords or PIN to anyone.
- When you go out leave all unnecessary credit cards and identification at home.
- When you receive your new PIN for your card do not write it down and keep it anywhere near your card. If you change your PIN or password, make sure they are all different. Also, don’t use your birthday, phone number or any other obvious passwords.
- Always check bank statements and credit card statements against receipts carefully. If you find any unfamiliar transactions contact your bank or credit card company immediately. Fraudsters often do a small transaction first to see if they are noticed.
- If you think you have been a victim of Identity Theft you should consider subscribing to the CIFAS Protective Registration service. A notice will be placed on your credit file indicating that documents have been stolen and that you may therefore be at risk of identity fraud. To register telephone 0870 010 2091.
- Find more helpful guidance visit the Home Office website
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