IDENTITY THEFT - WHAT IS IT?
The Scottish Business Crime Centre has just released a leaflet about the implications of identity theft and it's one of the fastest growing crimes in the UK costing billions of £'s. Whilst most of us are aware of such things existing, I found some new information provided that is relevant not only as an individual but also for people responsible for managing businesses. It seems we have moved on from 'phishing' scams to 'mule recruitment' and 'money' mule scams.
So what is identity theft?
Put simply, it's a theft that occurs when someone else uses your personal identification information without your knowledge or permission to obtain credit cards, phone products and services, obtain loans and mortgages, get a job, and commit other types of fraudulent or even criminal acts, in your name, then leaving you responsible to face the consequences which can be extreme and cause great distress to the victim(s).
This type of fraud now includes online scams can be just as effective in obtaining information about you in order to commit crime such as phishing and unsolicited emails asking for help.
How to avoid becoming a victim:-
• There is an old saying ‘if it looks to good to be true’ which is entirely relevant here as offers of large amounts of cash for very little work or no prior experience could indicate a fraudulent scheme.
• Always be cautious of overseas offers as it can be difficult to verify identity.
• You should always research any company that offers you a job checking things like address phone numbers etc.
• NEVER give your bank details to anyone unless you know and trust them and even then be cautious!
If you think you have been a victim of identity theft or want more information on how to prevent this visit http://www.identity-theft.org.uk/. Alternatively contact the Scottish Business Crime Centre for advice.
So what is identity theft?
Put simply, it's a theft that occurs when someone else uses your personal identification information without your knowledge or permission to obtain credit cards, phone products and services, obtain loans and mortgages, get a job, and commit other types of fraudulent or even criminal acts, in your name, then leaving you responsible to face the consequences which can be extreme and cause great distress to the victim(s).
This type of fraud now includes online scams can be just as effective in obtaining information about you in order to commit crime such as phishing and unsolicited emails asking for help.
How to avoid becoming a victim:-
• There is an old saying ‘if it looks to good to be true’ which is entirely relevant here as offers of large amounts of cash for very little work or no prior experience could indicate a fraudulent scheme.
• Always be cautious of overseas offers as it can be difficult to verify identity.
• You should always research any company that offers you a job checking things like address phone numbers etc.
• NEVER give your bank details to anyone unless you know and trust them and even then be cautious!
If you think you have been a victim of identity theft or want more information on how to prevent this visit http://www.identity-theft.org.uk/. Alternatively contact the Scottish Business Crime Centre for advice.
posted by Liz @ Fairways at
00:56
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