Safeguarding yourself from identity theft

1. Treat your personal data as confidential - do not give it away easily and consider if the person calling really needs such personal information from you.

2 Destroy any document showing your name, address or other details before discarding. This includes documents such as bank statements, utility bills, pre-filled application forms, chequebook stubs, debit or credit card transaction receipts, even envelopes or a letterhead showing an address.  (These are all potentially useful to a fraudster rifling through your rubbish/garbage. This is known as "bin raiding". Most good stationery stores sell inexpensive paper shredders).

3. Check all bank and credit card statements promptly. Report any transactions you do not recognise to the card issuer, even if they are only for small amounts.

4. Scrutinise your credit file (or credit report) for accuracy. Check for unauthorised activity, such as new accounts you did not open, credit searches by companies you have not dealt with or address links to addresses you don't recognise. You can arrange to receive your credit file regularly to monitor credit applications made in your name.

5 Close any accounts you no longer require. Dormant accounts may be reactivated by a fraudster without your knowledge.

You can learn more at: http://www.cifas.org.uk/identity_fraud_avoid_being_victim.asp.

Also Read: Safe Travel advice and how to avoid scams