Reports of identity fraud increased by more than two thirds in the first half of this year according to new research carried out by a leading credit rating company.
The report by Experian says that London remains the identity fraud capital of the U.K, stating those living within the M25 are three and a half times more likely to fall victim, especially residents of Kensington who are almost five times more at risk compared to the national average.
Present address fraud, which involves intercepting mail, remains the most common crime representing 39% of frauds reported in the first half of this year and reports of forwarding address fraud rose the most up to 32% in the same six month period, compared to 22% for the second half of 2006.
The hardest hit financially are loan providers, where the average cost per case has risen to £6,138, compared to £4,797 for the second half of last year. Credit and store card issuers are also among the most commonly targeted but are successfully taking steps to reduce their exposure.
Around 55% of victims self diagnosed the problem, the largest proportion ever, which suggests people are becoming more aware of the possibilities of becoming a victim.
Fraud and Regulatory Compliance Director at Experian, Helen Lord, commented, ‘Although some people are more likely than others to be targeted, everyone is a potential victim. People need to take active steps to protect themselves, including regularly checking their credit report. This enables people to quickly spot any fraudulent activity and seek assistance in sorting it out.’
Tips on avoiding becoming a victim, especially when moving house, include removing your name from the electoral register, informing banks and utility companies and redirecting mail to your new address for at least six months.
Despite taking all measures when he moved to East London, Joseph Bloggs, 37, was defrauded of £6,500 on a credit card by fraudsters who also ran up a debt of £500 with a utility company and even set up a computer company in his name.
‘Despite doing all the sensible things I still fell victim. It is an extremely stressful and unnerving experience and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone,’ he said.
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2 comments:
Tom,
introduction- 9/10.
content-10/10
Well organised, informative, objective and un-biased. Really good article from a reader's perspective as its provides both a good overview of the situation and a factual strain with the use of statistics and figures.
Good use of quote at the end adding dramatic emphasis!
grammatically accurate with good structure
I found this a well-written piece. It was informative and balanced.
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