Protecting your identity
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.
Identity fraud prevention
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, here are some more suggestions:
- Keep banking and financial information in a locked drawer
- Do the same for valuable documents, such as your passport
- Any scraps of information are useful to a clever thief, who can use public records to find out more
- Never keep your cards with your cheque books, and don’t tell anyone your PINs or passwords or write them down
Coutts clients
To find out more about how we can help you, please contact your Private Banker.New clients
If you wish to become a client of Coutts, please complete this form or contact us on +44 (0)20 7753 1963.