by Angelina Moore

Created on: August 26, 2008   Last Updated: February 28, 2011

Identity fraud is becoming a big concern to people from around the world. It can happen to anyone. A criminal will use your personal information without your knowledge or consent and commit crimes such as fraud, deception or theft. Identity fraud can have some major consequences, not only can it cause the victims money who be stolen, but If a crime was to be committed by the criminal, then this would mean that the person who's identity was stolen would be to blame.

It can be easy for Identity thieves to steal identities so it is very important to be careful with personal information. The key information is your name and address however without giving identity thieves any ideas! They will look for utility bills, credit card and bank statements to carry out their illegal operations in stealing your identity which can mean that they apply for a birth certificate in your name or a passport.

These stolen identities can help the identity thieves to open up bank accounts in your name or even apply for loans or credits and reap social benefits.

Here are some tips to keep your identity safe!
*Buy a shredder! This will probably be one of the best investments you could possibly make! They are not majorly expensive and it allows you to shred all your important documents such a bank statements so that no one can get hold of your personal information.

*If you plan on keeping important documents, credit cards or cheques make sure that they are in a safe place, away from the eyes of the thieves! Also make sure that you keep your cheques and cards separate as this means that thieves cannot link information together easily.

*Make sure that any other documents such as your passport, driving license, card receipts, financial statements and even utility bills are kept safe, shred the things that you don't need. Don't horde if unnecessary!

*Do not share important information with anyone, unless you are completely confident that you can trust them. It is vital that you never give information away over the phone, even if it is someone claiming to be from the bank or the police, always be on your guard! Your bank should only ever ask you for specific characters within your password it should never ever be your entire password. If you're not sure that the person is truthfully from the bank refuse to give the information.

*Never share your PIN number with anyone; as this will make it easy for a thief to steal your money.

*When you get your bank statement check them carefully against receipts to see if the numbers add up. If you see anything unfamiliar or suspicious take action immediately by contacting your card company.

*Make sure that all post that you should have received has been received. If a bank statement or utility bill is not received and should have been contact the appropriate people.

*Keep your guards safe; when paying with your card don't let them out of your sight. If your card does seem to disappear from you report them lost and stolen immediately to stop any money from being taken. Always make sure that you have a list of your banks numbers available to you in case of emergencies.

*Finally if you move house you will need to contact your bank and all the other companies and supply them with your new address.

Remember
If something looks suspicious...act on it immediately! Always be on your guard!

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