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IS THERE A FRAUDSTER UNDER YOUR ROOF?

Equifax warns consumers to remain vigilant as latest fraud figures show increase in current address fraud

London 25th April 2007 – The latest figures from CIFAS, the UK’s Fraud Prevention Service, show that identity fraud is up 12% in quarter one of 2007, compared to the same period in 2006. But leading online credit information provider, Equifax, is most concerned about the reported rise in current address fraud, which suggests fraudsters are becoming less scrupulous by targeting those close to them.

Equifax’s own surveys have identified that a significant number of frauds are committed by someone the victim knows. The company is therefore urging consumers to be cautious with their personal information.

“The Quarter 1 2007 CIFAS figures show that fraud should continue to be a matter of major concern for consumers,” explains Neil Munroe, External Affairs Director of Equifax. “However, it seems that the public continue to underestimate the value of their information and the steps needed to protect it. And it’s wrong to assume that fraudsters are complete strangers as the new figures strongly suggest they could be much closer to home.”

Fraudsters are turning from previous address fraud (stealing personal information when someone moves home) in favour of current address fraud. Current address frauds now represent 60% of all address frauds, compared with just 44% a year ago. This is a type of ID fraud where the victim lives at the “current address” given on the fraudulent application. The fraudster often lives in the same property as the victim, possibly sharing a communal mail box.

The Equifax ID Fraud survey conducted in September 2006 also highlighted that the risk of ID fraud can be very close to home. Of the respondents who had been a victim of ID fraud, 11% said they knew the fraudster*. And of these 19% said it was a relative and 14% a neighbour.

“These figures demonstrate that consumers need to take responsibility for their personal information. If you share a communal entrance, consider installing individual mail boxes, or if you live in shared accommodation keep passports, driving licences and other documents under lock and key. We advise consumers to obtain a copy of their credit report regularly and check statements and bills for any unusual activity. Fraudsters are always looking for new ways to trick individuals out of their information and it’s up to consumers to make sure it’s as difficult for them as possible.”

Top Tips to Prevent ID Fraud

  • Check your credit report frequently – the most effective way of identifying fraudsters using your ID. Go to www.equifax.co.uk.
  • Shred vital personal information on statements, bills and direct mail.
  • When you move home have mail redirected to your new address.
  • Do not write down PINs or keep them near your cards.
  • Make sure your PINs and passwords are all different and don’t use obvious things like your birthday or phone number.
  • If you have a communal entrance take steps to ensure mail is not left where neighbours have access to it.
  • If you live in shared accommodation keep personal documents under lock and key.
  • Always check bank statements and credit card statements against receipts. If you find any unfamiliar transactions contact your bank or credit card company immediately.
  • 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.

* Survey conducted of 2,000 Equifax Customers.

END

Notes to Editors

If you would like more information or would like to arrange an interview with Neil Munroe please contact Cecile Stearn, Claire Foster, Kate Clements or Elinor Puzey at HSL on 020 8977 9132 or email claire@harrisonsadler.com

About Equifax

Equifax Inc. is a global leader in information technology that enables and secures global commerce with consumers and businesses. We are one of the largest sources of consumer and commercial data. Utilizing our databases, advanced analytics and proprietary enabling technology, we provide real-time answers for our customers. This innovative ability to transform information into intelligence is valued by customers across a wide range of industries and markets. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Equifax employs approximately 4,600 people in 13 countries throughout North America, Latin America and Europe. Equifax was founded 107 years ago, and today is a member of Standard & Poor’s (S&P) 500® Index. Our common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol EFX.  .

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