ID Theft Poorly Understood

by Gill Montia

Story link: ID Theft Poorly Understood

Capital One, the credit card provider, has published research carried out by YouGov, showing that over 42 million adults in the UK do not understand how to establish whether or not they have been a victim of identity theft. Whilst 99% of those surveyed were aware of the problem, only one in ten knew what do if they suspect that their ID has been stolen.

Identity theft is increasing in the UK and 41% of those surveyed had concerns that it might happen to them. Identity thieves operate by obtaining someone’s personal details and using them to apply for credit cards, loans, mobile phone contracts, driving licences and even passports. Debts are left unpaid and the victim only becomes aware of the problem when debt collectors become involved, or they have difficulty getting a job or mortgage.

According to the research, many people in the UK are not taking action to keep confidential information secure. Some are happy to throw away bank statements in tact and others store personal information in their homes, but insecurely. The best way to prevent ID theft is to make sure personal information is not available to the prospective thief. It is also possible to make checks with a credit reference agency to ensure that no spurious accounts have been opened or applications made.