Identity theft

What is identity theft?

Identity theft occurs when someone steals:

• Your name
• Your personal information
• Your financial information
• Any other information that is specific to you as an individual

This becomes identity fraud if those details are then used to commit a crime, such as opening bank accounts or obtaining credit cards, loans, state benefits, driving licences or passports in your name.

According to the UK’s fraud prevention community Cifas, 185,578 cases of identity fraud were recorded last year. Early figures indicate that the problem may be on the rise, with the first six months of 2021 showing an 11% increase in identity fraud cases compared to the same period in 2020.

However, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of falling victim to this highly distressing and often financially draining crime…

How can I avoid being a victim of identity theft?

One simple measure that can help to protect you from identity theft or fraud is regularly shredding any documents that contain personal or financial information such as receipts, rather than putting them directly in the bin, which risks your information ending up in the hands of criminals.

More tips to avoid falling victim to identity theft or fraud

Before giving out personal information ask yourself:

• Who is asking for my details?
• What details are they asking for?
• Why do they need to know these details?
• Have they verified who they say they are?
• Would the person they claim to be request that information?
• Have I shredded/destroyed any personal or financial information, including receipts?
• If you have any suspicions, don’t give out your details until you’ve checked everything out.

If you have information on those behind identity theft or fraud, you can tell us what you know, 100% anonymously. Call us on 0800 555 111 or report via our secure online form:

Give information anonymously

13 February 2025