Warning Signs that You've Been a Victim Of Identity Theft

We're all Potential Victims of Identity Theft. If you haven’t been a victim of identity fraud – it’s only because the thieves haven’t got around to you yet!  We’re all on the list!  Your turn will come sooner or later.  It doesn't matter how old you are!  Even death is no protection! It's a cross-generational crime!

Be aware of the warning signs of Identity Theft

• You apply for benefits but are told you are already claiming
• You are in hospital and their records indicate existing conditions for which treatment has been given but you don’t have that condition and haven’t received any treatment!   You receive an overseas health claim on a Form E111 in your name.  Inform the police immediately.  Check your credit files to ensure no other fraud has been committed against you
• Your Credit Card is declined unexpectedly – ring your card company and ask why
• You’re denied a mortgage, insurance, loan, job or anything that requires a credit check – ask why – they won’t tell you but will tell you whether a credit reference agency has been searched and if so, which one.  Get a credit report immediately
• You’re denied a Store card – check your credit report immediately
• Your credit card company calls to query a foreign or unusual transaction – don’t reveal card numbers or passwords – they should know these already
• You find accounts you do not recognise on your credit file or searches of your report by companies which you have never contacted or linked addresses for which you have no connection
• Your cheques bounce unexpectedly – call your bank immediately
• Debt Collectors or Bailiffs arrive – ask for details of the debt, the company involved and advise them that you are the victim of identity theft.  DO NOT ALLOW THEM ACCESS TO YOUR HOME UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES
• The Police arrive with a warrant for your arrest.  If you think it can’t happen to you remember the story of Dr Paul Grout, Senior Consultant with Hull Royal Infirmary, who was arrested and charged as a paedophile – lost his job and most of his friends and spent 2 years proving his innocence.  CALL A SOLICITOR IMMEDIATELY
• Mail appears to be late, or doesn’t arrive at all – Contact the post office
• You are burgled but not much appears to be missing – check your personal data
• You are stopped unexpectedly leaving or entering an airport - remember Derek Bond
• You receive notice from your local post office that a redirection notice requires renewal – contact the post office immediately
• You receive a debt collection call for an unknown debt – ask them for a copy of the Credit Agreement – tell them you may be a victim of identity fraud
• A county Court summons arrives for a debt you know nothing about – follow the instructions on the form to challenge it immediately.  Get a copy of the credit agreement and check your credit file
• There are unexpected debits or charges on your credit card or bank statement – call your bank and check your credit file