Identity theft and credit fraud

Identity theft & credit fraud: how to avoid being a victim

Identity theft and online fraud are ever concerning issues. According to a 2009 survey carried out by Which? 1 in 4 people in Britain has been the target of financial fraud.

By taking some simple precautions, you can minimise your exposure to identity theft.

Ensure that your bank account and credit card details are safe at all times. Keep bank and credit cards safely concealed in your wallet or purse. When paying by credit or debit card, make sure that you are present for the transaction.

Check your bank and credit-card statements regularly.
Use a shredder to destroy any documents displaying your name, address and other details. This can include bank statements, bills, credit and debit card receipts.
Secure your mobile phone. Register your phone with your provider, so that it can be barred if stolen. Security mark your phone and battery with a ultraviolet pen.
Keep items such as your birth certificate, driving licence, national insurance number and passport in a safe place and do not carry them with you unless necessary.
Ensure that your PC or laptop is installed with a secure firewall and anti-virus software to prevent hackers stealing your personal data.
Always use secure websites. When buying online, look for the yellow lock or key symbol at the bottom of the internet page. Also, look for ‘https’ at the beginning of the website address before adding your personal details.
Avoid so-called phishing emails, asking for personal data such as bank account details, credit card numbers and passwords. Bear in mind that your bank will never email you requesting personal information of this nature, therefore if you do receive one of these emails delete it immediately.
If you receive a phone call from an official organisation such as a bank, asking for your personal details, it’s usually best to tell them you’re going to hang up and ring them back on a telephone number from their website.

Find the right Hiscox insurance policy for you

With Hiscox High Value Home Insurance, you and your family are automatically covered up to £50,000 against identity theft under our family protection cover, which comes as standard.

You can also benefit from Control Risks’ 24 hour support and online information service. Control Risks provide expert advice and assistance on personal security, from safety abroad to ID theft at home.

Read more about high value home insurance >