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Don’t Let Your Identity be the Next Thing Stolen
Don’t Let Your Identity be the Next Thing Stolen
As we evolve into a cashless society the use of credit cards and electronic banking can increase the likelihood of becoming a victim of identity fraud.
Identity fraud is one of the fastest growing crimes in the world today and is facilitated by:
- Theft of a wallet containing drivers licence & credit cards;
- Burglary of residences for identity documents;
- Credit card skimming involving the unauthorised copying of electronic data from a legitimate card and a counterfeit card produced; and
- Theft of mail containing personal identifying information and cards.
The theft and misuse of your identity can cause a significant impact on your life. This can include:
- Loss of money from your accounts;
- Being suspected of committing a crime;
- Damage to your reputation and credit rating; and
- Money and time taken to convince financial institutions and/or police that you were not responsible.
By adhering to the following rules you can reduce the likelihood of being the victim of identity fraud:
- Treat your credit card like cash, don’t let it out of your sight during a transaction;
- Order and study a copy of your credit card statement regularly;
- Place different passwords (PINs) on all your important accounts;
- Secure your personal information;
- Destroy personal information before disposal (shredding);
- Avoid giving personal information out over the telephone, by mail or the internet;
- Secure your mail; and
- Limit the amount of credit you have in accounts.
If you suspect your identity has been stolen or misused immediately report the matter to your bank or financial service and then to police. For further information on identity fraud visit www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/crimeprevention/fraud.
Last Updated: 08/09/2006