Identity Theft - the warning signs
By looking out for some telltale signs, you can help reduce the impact of identity theft by spotting it sooner.
Disappearing mail
Make a note of when you usually expect to receive your bank statements and utility bills. If you think your mail is disappearing
call Royal Mail to make sure a re-direction has not been set up without your authority.
Declined credit
This can be the first indication of identity theft, however it can also happen for many other reasons. You should ask the
lender if they are willing to tell you why they have refused you credit and which credit reference agency they searched
If you are a Capital One customer, register for Capital One Identity Alert to get access to your credit report.
Unrecognised transactions
Always check you bank and credit card statements on a regular basis. If you don't recognise any transactions contact your
bank or credit card provider immediately.
Requests for personal details
If you receive an email claiming to be from your bank or credit card provider and asking you to provide personal details DO
NOT provide these details
Find out more about hoax emails
Theft or loss of identifying documents
If you have lost any documents such as your passport or driving license you should report these losses immediately to the
police, DVLA and Passport office where appropriate.
Police warrants and count court judgements (CCJ)
In extreme cases you might be issued with a police warrant or a CCJ. If so, you should explain that you have been a victim
of ID Theft and the police will advise you on what you should do.
Recently bereaved
In the UK, criminals have been targeting the recently deceased and apply for credit in their names. If you are the executor
of a loved one's estate, notify all appropriate government departments and relevant financial companies.
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