Identity fraud
Wandsworth Council backed the recent National Identity Fraud Prevention Week. New research reveals that more people than ever are putting themselves at risk of becoming a victim.

As part of the national drive to make the public more aware of the dangers of identity fraud, and the simple steps they can take to protect themselves, the campaign has set up a dedicated website - www.stop-idfraud.co.uk, with a test to highlight 'how at risk you are.'

There is also a free-phone number - 0800 1810 1810 - that members of the public can call to receive a free guide to 'Protecting Your Identity' guide.

Top 10 tips to beat the ID fraudster:

• Keep your personal and confidential documents secure
• Always shred, using a confetti cut shredder, before disposing of documentation - bank and credit card statements, utility bills, receipts, direct mail containing any personal information, mortgage applications etc
• Regularly check your bank and credit card accounts for unusual transactions
• Regularly obtain a copy of your credit report from credit reference agencies Callcredit, Equifax or Experian, and monitor it for discrepancies
• When you move home, redirect your mail to your new address by contacting Royal Mail Redirection Service on 0845 7740 740, visiting your local post office or www.royalmail.com 
• Never give out any personal information to unidentified individuals or organisations who contact you by phone, email or face-to-face
• If you have been a victim of identity fraud contact your nearest police station or visit www.met.police.uk/fraudalert/ 
• If you think you have been a victim of identity fraud you should consider subscribing to the CIFAS Protective Registration service. A notice will be placed on your credit file indicating that documents have been stolen and that you may therefore be at risk of identity fraud. To register by telephone call 0870 010 2091
• If you have information about identity fraud, contact the police or call Crimestoppers to give information anonymously on 0800 555 111
• Don't think it can't happen to you!