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Equifax: ID fraud fear bigger than street crime

16/07/2008

Nearly 20,000 British people have been victims of identity fraud, according to new figures from American Express.

This has led to the fear of identity theft growing bigger than a fear of being a victim of street crime, research from Equifax has suggested.

The online credit information provider said ID fraud is the fastest growing crime this century, so the conclusions of the research, carried out by Apacs, are not surprising.

People worried about being targeted by ID fraudsters and being forced into debt as a result are urged to protect themselves with some simple measures.

Equifax`s research indicated 87 per cent of social networkers publish their full name and 38 per cent their date of birth on their profiles, making information easy to find for fraudsters.

The survey also found 46 per cent store bank details and 16 per cent their Pin on their phones, Blackberrys or computers. This is described as "crazy" by Neil Munroe, ID fraud expert for Equifax.

Consumers are advised to never reveal or write down Pins, be vigilant when banking online and never keep financial information in handbags.

American firm Equifax has provided financial information for over a century.

Consumers took on more mortgage debt in July 26/08/2010 - Consumers took on £2bn more mortgage debt than they repaid Debts called in by parents 26/08/2010 - According to research, `the bank of Mum and Dad` is Teenagers `scared of debt` 19/08/2010 - Nearly two thirds of teenagers are `scared` of debt, according Rising household costs could pressure people in debt 10/08/2010 - The UK may be about to see a rise in