• Back to previous page

Remember - Keep your personal details secure at all times

According to latest industry sources the ongoing problem of identity fraud continues to affect around 100,000 people per year.

Many people reckon that identity theft will never happen to them, but if you are the victim of this crime it can significantly impact you, causing the anxiety and time spent in restoring bank details, documents and recovering funds.

Criminals can obtain your personal details in a variety of unscrupulous ways, from raking through bins to accessing public records and they collect these details to open bank accounts, obtain credit cards, loans and other financial benefits.

Additionally, other key documents such as passports and driving licenses can be obtained for fraudulent use.

What can you do to protect yourself?

• Always lock away (preferably at home) all valuable personal documents and receipts, remembering to keep chequebooks and cards separately.
• Always shred specific personal information such as bank statements, and old plastic cards when these are no longer required
• Always carefully check all bank statements upon receipt and immediately report any unrecognisable or suspicious transactions to your branch.

Please visit www.identitytheft.org.ukfor further details.

It is however recognised that occasionally our customers may be affected by identity theft and will need assistance.

If you think you have been subject to a fraud then you must let your bank know, immediately.

Our industry partners CIFAS provide a protective registration service that will prevent your name and address from being misused by third parties.

Please visit www.cifas.org.uk for further details.