Equifax Highlights the Need for Vigilence following Crackdown on Identity Thieves
London (PRWEB UK) 18 October 2013 -- Following news that the National Crime Agency’s (NCA)* cyber-crime unit has scored its first success in the ongoing war on identity theft, leading ID fraud expert, Equifax, is urging customers to still remain vigilant to protect themselves from ever-more sophisticated scams.
Over the last few days the NCA has been successful in a London-based fraudster being given a long-term jail sentence for offences including conspiracy to defraud UK banks, financial institutions and customers for over £750,000.
Neil Munroe, External Affairs Director, Equifax commented “Following the first of what we hope is a long line of successful online fraud prevention cases, we are still urging individuals to be extra cautious with their personal information and take care when sharing data. The level of sophistication behind this particular scam highlights just how much of a threat fraudsters can be.
“We urge consumers to monitor their credit file on a regular basis so that if they do become a victim, quick action can be taken. Checking credit and bank account statements regularly should also be something consumers should be encouraged to do so that they can quickly spot unauthorised transactions. Plus it’s vital to be vigilant about information provided online.”
Equifax encourages individuals to get a copy of their credit report in order to identify any unauthorised activity quickly. The Equifax credit report monitoring service will also provide alerts about any unauthorised applications for credit.
The Equifax Credit Report is accessible for 30 days free simply by logging onto http://www.equifax.co.uk. If customers do not cancel before the end of the 30 Day Free Trial, the service will continue at £9.95 per month, giving them unlimited online access to their credit information and weekly alerts on any changes to their credit file. It also includes an online dispute facility to help them correct any errors on their credit file simply and quickly.
EQUIFAX TIPS TO PROTECT AGAINST ID FRAUD
Regularly apply for a copy of your credit file to look out for any unauthorised activity
Always check bank statements and credit card statements carefully against receipts
When using online banking, or making financial transactions, ensure people can’t view your details
Log out of websites, rather than just closing the window
No matter how much you trust your friends, work colleagues, NEVER give out your PIN or online passwords
Never store your PIN on mobile phones, blackberrys, tablets or laptops
Don’t include common verification information such as your date of birth or your mother’s maiden name on social networking sites
Set up privacy on your social media profile so that only close friends can view your information
Make sure your computer has the latest virus protection that ideally updates hourly
If you think you have become a victim of fraud, alert your bank and credit card providers immediately.
You can call Action Fraud or your financial services provider(s) for advice and support on 0300 123 2040 or visit their website http://www.actionfraud.org.uk
*Data Source:*National Crime Agency, Date: 09.10.13
Equifax is a global leader in consumer, commercial and workforce information solutions, providing businesses of all sizes and consumers with information they can trust. We organise and assimilate data on more than 500 million consumers and 81 million businesses worldwide, and use advanced analytics and proprietary technology to create and deliver customised insights that enrich both the performance of businesses and the lives of consumers
Clare Watson | Nakhalar Sterling | Wendy Harrison | Cecile Stearn | Ed McCambridge, Equifax, http://www.equifax.co.uk/, +44 20 8977 9132, [email protected]
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