Stockport based C&C Insurance Brokers are warning that identity theft is on the rise following a speight of claims made by their clients and according to the latest UK wide fraud analysis from Experian who report that identity theft has become the ‘most prevalent form of fraud since the recession.’
The report found that affluent couples accounted for 11% of all identity theft in 2014, where they are particularly targeted for card and loan fraud. This makes them the second most targeted demographic behind young people in rented accommodation. Experian explains that wealthy couples are targeted by thieves due to their large incomes
offering the potential for higher value scams.
Top tips to help protect you against identity fraud
C&C advises five key steps people should consider to help avoid identity theft:
- Online passwords: Always use secure, unique passwords for as many online accounts as possible, and ideally all of them. At the very least have a unique password for each type of service provider such as financial services, retail services and email.
- Emails: Don’t be tempted to open emails, links or attachments received from people you don’t know. If an email seems suspicious, contact the relevant organisation and don’t give out personal details.
- Account details: Don’t store account names and passwords on your smartphone, either in email, as a note, or to ‘autocomplete’ when you open a website or app. It will be a goldmine for fraudsters if your device is lost or stolen.
- Social Websites: Be cautious and don’t add people you don’t know. Remember what you might consider to be unimportant information like your birthday, email address or dog’s name could all be misused by criminals.
- Be credit wise: Monitor your credit report, bank account and card statements regularly – it will help you spot any suspicious activities as early as possible and avoid financial loss.
C&C Insurance Brokers provide both personal and high net worth insurance policies with reputable Insurers to help protect you and your family.
For any help and advice please contact C&C Personal Lines Department on 0161 406 4800.