PrivacyGuard ™

PrivacyGuard ®

Identity fraud prevention

Identity fraud is an increasingly sophisticated crime. And, with thousands of people in the UK thought to be affected each year, it is also increasingly common.

It involves criminals unlawfully taking another person's details, or creating a fictitious name, for fraudulent purposes. Once obtained, the information can be used for a range of fraudulent activity involving loans, credit cards and even passports.

Personal information can be gleaned in a number of ways and often people don't realise what they can be giving away. Unfortunately, victims of crime can see their credit histories ruined and it can take years to rectify the fraud.

How can you help to protect yourself?

As well as following simple steps such as shredding your personal information and being wary of requests for your details, you can now register with PrivacyGuard® – a proactive identity fraud prevention service offered by Affinion International. Once registered with them, you will receive:

  • A personal credit report – so that you can identify any incorrect information and see if someone else has been using your name to gain credit. It will include your credit score, outstanding balances, dates, and lists individuals or businesses financially connected to you.
  • Credit alert – a monthly monitoring service enabling you to identify any incorrect information and see whether anyone is using your name.
  • You are further protected against identity fraud with up to £10,000 cover for 'out of pocket' costs incurred in organising paperwork, notifying creditors and more as well as professional assistance helping you along the way.
  • PrivacyGuard® membership is available for just £79.99 a year and, as a Coutts client, you will enjoy 30-days' free trial.
  • An excess of £50 applies to each Identity Theft Event (defined as one occurrence of identity theft or a series of related occurrences).
  • You must be a UK resident and at least 18 years of age.
  • Limits up to £10,000 for each occurrence (defined as a loss or incident arising during the term).

How to apply

To apply for PrivacyGuard®, you will need to be a client of Coutts & Co in the UK and be over the age of 18. If you are already a client, please speak to your private banker or call Coutts 24.