Identity theft just keeps on growing.

Posted in 'Identity Theft' by Richard Catlin

10 August 2009

Fraud and identity theft have continued to grow at a worrying pace through the first half of 2009, according to official figures from CIFAS - the UK's fraud prevention agency.

Recorded cases of 'Facility Takeover' fraud and Identity Fraud were both up considerably on 2008 figures as the recession continues to keep criminals busy.

The first six months of this year saw 25,692 victims of identity fraud - a 74% increase on the same period last year - with almost the same number of cases foiled. The battle against fraudsters isn't showing signs of letting up, CIFAS members (such as lenders) preventing over £480 million of fraud in the six months to June.

These worrying numbers once again highlight the link between the economic downturn and increased fraud levels. Forged passports are reported to be the most commonly used tool in identity theft - with over 52,000 victims of impersonation fraud recorded.

Facility Takeover - where a fraudster takes control of an existing, legitimate account - rose by 40%. Mail interception is just one of the methods employed by criminals to achieve this - subsequently changing the address recorded against the account.

Phishing is another popular method - with a 'tax rebate' email such as the type highlighted on the HMRC site here, the latest to do the rounds. The lesser known practice of 'smishing' is also a growing concern - where fraudsters attempt to obtain personal details through faked bank text messages.

Although identity theft and fraudster activity is undoubtedly on the up, there are ways and means of reducing your chances of falling victim. The Free Identity Theft Check service on checkmyfile lets you check which areas of your lifestyle might be targeted by criminals. This includes where you go on holiday, what you carry in your purse or wallet, and how complicated your passwords are.

Or you can find hundreds of safety tips and often cost-free prevention tips in our industry acclaimed identity theft handbook, which costs only £4.99 including postage and packing.

Because many criminals often work as part of a gang - with ill gotten gains funding wider criminal activity - it is quite common to find large numbers of people falling victim in a short space of time in a given postcode. As part of the check, we'll also tell you if your postcode is currently flagged as an identity theft hotspot.

For complete peace of mind, you can also keep an eye on your credit files with checkmyfile. For just £17.55 a quarter, you can monitor your report based on data from all three UK credit reference agencies every month, including your score and rating. Should you be worried that you are being targeted, we'll be able to advise you about the steps you can take to protect yourself.