Warning on identity theft

Identity theft is when criminals get a hold of personal details and use them to open bank accounts, get credit cards, loans or state benefits in your name.

To stop identity theft you need to burn or shred all old documents, including any bank or credit card statements, passports, driving licences and household bills.

They urge you to check statements carefully and report any unusual transactions immediately.

Report a lost or stolen passport, driving licence or credit card to the organisation that issued it.

Get a copy of your personal credit report from one of the major credit reference agencies. This will help you to find out if someone else is applying for credit in your name.

Royal Mail has a redirection service, which you may consider using to ensure your post arrives at your new address.

However, if you suspect your mail is being stolen then contact the Royal Mail Customer Enquiry line: 08457 740 740.

Never give personal or account details to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly, either by phone, post, email or in person.

If you use the internet then always use a different password for each account. Do not use family names or dates of birth as passwords, as these can be easily guessed.