Identity thieves target Golders Green

Posted in 'Identity Theft' by Barry Stamp

22 December 2011

One of the most frustrating things about fighting identity fraud is trying to get the message out to people who are clearly at risk. In the past, when we have identified suspected criminal activity, we have done all sorts to warn the general public.

For example, when we see individuals being targeted in the same street or postal area, we send posters to local libraries, banks, and even to the local Starbucks in an attempt to raise awareness.

The problem lies at Christmas, when identity thieves know that most people have their guard down, and few will read our posters, even if we can get them out on time.

At the moment, we can see the residents in the Golders Green area, in particular with postcodes starting NW11 9.. just starting to be targeted by identity fraudsters. In the past, Balham has been a particularly nasty hotspot.

Unfortunately the police are unable to help until a crime has actually been committed, and even then, this type of fraud is not a high priority one for the hard-pressed constabulary. It’s down to individuals to do what they can to stay alert and to take precautions to avoid falling victim.

One of the first things to do is to use our completely free Identity Theft Check service – which gives personalised advice based on your current life habits. By checking our free Check Any Postcode service, you can see whether your postcode is an identity fraud hotspot.

If you wish to check for the tell-tale signs of credit being applied for in your name and without your knowledge, you should check your credit report. Our Multi Agency Credit Report is free to trial for 30 days, and if you don’t cancel, costs only £9.99 per month, for a credit report which contains more than twice the information found on any other credit report. A small price to pay for peace of mind.

Finally, the 2011 edition of our industry acclaimed handbook ‘Identity Theft, Prevention and Victim Assistance’ can be downloaded to your Kindle in less than a minute for less than £1. This is packed with advice on how to reduce the risks of falling victim, and should you find yourself already impersonated, will be one of the best £1 you will have ever spent.