UK National Identity Fraud Prevention Week Targets Students

Because identity theft is a highly serious matter that can turn any individual into a victim, the Metropolitan Police joined forces with Fellowes Europe and others in order to stop the phenomenon that makes 4 million casualties each year in the UK alone.

"Stealing an identity is just the beginning for a fraudster. With few details, accounts can be taken over, loans can be applied for and purchases can be made, all without the consent or knowledge of the individual, potentially costing the victim substantial sums of money,” said Jamey Johnson, head of Action Fraud, the national fraud reporting and advice center.

A recent study revealed that even though most of the population is aware of the threats imposed by this type of fraud, they continue to ignore basic warnings which could keep their personal information safe. Numbers show that 7% of all the citizens in the United Kingdom were at one point hit by ID thieves, some loosing even £9,000($13,000 or 9500 EUR).

This year, the spotlight of the campaign will be on students who will learn all about credit card crimes and online identity theft from the professionals.

"This week is a great opportunity to not only engage with the general public but to also highlight the numerous ways that fraudsters will use stolen or false IDs to commit other more serious crimes.

"The MPS are dedicated to tackling the ever changing threat of ID fraud, whether that be online, through postal scams, or over the phone," revealed Detective Chief Inspector Nick Downing from Operation Sterling.

Here are some recommendations that could protect your identity from the hands of cybercriminals:
- closely study bank statements for unexpected transactions;
- properly dispose of documents that might contain sensitive data;
- look into mail that goes missing;
- regular credit card checks are always good;
- try not to share to much information on the internet, except when absolutely necessary.