ID THEFT PROTECT - Learn More
About ID Theft
"Identity theft and identity fraud won't affect me." "I cut up my bank statements, so how could my details get stolen?" "Nobody would be interested in stealing my identity." Identity theft is the misuse of an identity (such as your name, date of birth, current or previous addresses), without your knowledge or consent. These details are used to obtain goods and services in your name. It’s hard to believe, but this is currently not a criminal offence in the UK.
Identity fraud is the use of a misappropriated identity in criminal activity, to obtain goods or services by deception. This usually involves the use of stolen or forged identity documents such as a passport or driving licence. This is a criminal offence in the UK. Unlike the US (where the consumer is regarded as the victim), it is the UK financial institutions that are seen as the victims of Identity Fraud and not the consumer!
| Types of identity theft and fraud |
| There are many methods that a fraudster can use to obtain your personal information and open or access accounts in your name. Read about some of the most popular methods here. To navigate, click on any of the following images below:
| Type 1: Application ID fraud |
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What is Application ID fraud? Stolen or false documents (like your utility bills and bank statements) are used to open an account in your name. Alternatively, the fraudster may use counterfeit documentation for identification purposes. Thrown away any bills lately?
What does the fraudster do next? The fraudster will use your card (quoting the number, found on your bill) over the Internet, by telephone, fax and mail order. This is called Card-not-present (CNP). The problem in countering this type of fraud lies in the fact that neither the card nor the cardholder is present at a till point – so it’s difficult to catch the perpetrator.
What can you do? We can help you to significantly reduce the likelihood of Application ID Fraud. Simply sign up to the STEP-BY-STEP to receive our expert advice and protect yourself and your family.
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