Top Anti-Fraud tips Revealed

(19-03-08) - News service Reuters-UK has compiled a list of guidelines to prevent UK consumers from becoming victims of fraud. writes Dan Drage dan.drage@consumerchoices.co.uk

As reported by CreditChoices on the 17th of March, overseas card fraud has risen by 77% over the course of the last 12 months. Total card fraud has leapt to a total cost of £535 million.

In order to prevent oneself from becoming a victim, Reuters suggest the following pointers:

• Alert either the bank or credit card provider immediately if your statement doesn’t arrive on time.


• Check all statements and bills carefully, and keep them for 12 months.


• Shred all sensitive correspondence.


• When moving home, be sure to inform your bank, credit card provider and all utilities suppliers including your mobile phone provider. Leave a forwarding address at the property you’re leaving.


• Shield your PIN when using an ATM, and make sure there are no spurious devices attached to the card slot.


• Never divulge any personal details, such as passwords and PINs. Take safety precautions when conceding personal information, particularly via e-mail. Send your account number, PIN and sort code in separate e-mails.


• Shop at secure websites where either the padlock or unbroken key symbol is shown in your browser.


• Use different PINs and passwords for different accounts, and change them regularly.


• If personal documents such as a birth certificate or passport are stolen, inform the relevant authorities immediately.


• Cut your cards before disposing of them.


• Check your credit rating on a regular basis, at least annually.

Chris Eagle, Commercial Manager at CreditChoices, wholeheartedly agrees:

‘Follow this list and you should be able to manage your finances with confidence. Don’t be intimidated into avoiding ATMs and shopping online, they can both be tackled safely and securely if you take the necessary preventative steps.’

Related Articles:

Overseas card fraud up 77%

Bogus website fraudsters

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