Safe Surfing

Identity Theft

Protection Tips

Many people worry about getting their identity stolen when they're online. But you are much more likely to have your identity stolen by a thief going through your rubbish or by having your wallet stolen.

• Paying your bills and banking online is safe. But you must be careful. Monitor your account balances and activity online at least once a week.
• Review your credit reports regularly. These reports show your credit history and most online banks offer this service to their customers.
• Keep bank statements, passwords, and log ins safe, and make sure that no-one - not even family members know where they are.
• Do not open email attachments unless you are expecting the attachment and know the sender. Even then be careful.
• Do not answer any email asking for personal information ? you should only give out details on a secure website where the protection policies are clear.
• Install a firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Make sure that you update them regularly.

If you think that your ID has been stolen:

• Contact your bank or Credit Card Company. Ask to speak to the fraud department.
• Back everything up with a letter and keep copies. Log the action you have taken and who you have spoken to.
• Use new passwords and log ins when opening new accounts.