Theft From The Person

Follow some straightforward steps to protect yourself from theft and prevent potential consequences.

1. Secure Personal Information: Keep your personal information, like PINs and passwords, safe and confidential. Don't write them down or share them with anyone.
2. Verify Calls: If someone contacts you about your personal details or bank accounts, verify their identity by calling them back using the official contact number from their website or documents. Only share personal information over the phone if you know the caller's legitimacy.
3. Report Lost or Stolen Documents: You should immediately report lost or stolen identity documents like passports, driver's licenses, and ID cards to the relevant authorities.
4. Monitor Financial Statements: Regularly review your financial statements to check for unfamiliar transactions. Report any unauthorized activity to your bank or financial institution.
5. Credit Checks: Perform periodic credit checks with a credit reference agency to ensure the accuracy of your credit record.
6. Limit Online Personal Information: Be cautious about sharing personal information online, especially your date of birth and address. The less information available, the harder it is for identity thieves to target you.
7. Mail Redirection: When moving house, update your address with all relevant companies and consider redirecting your mail to prevent documents from falling into the wrong hands.
8. Computer Security: Install antivirus software and a firewall on your computer or laptop to protect your details from unauthorized access.

Remember these essential rules to protect yourself from fraud and avoid falling victim to scams:

1. Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.
2. Take your time with decisions; seek independent or legal advice when necessary.
3. Verify credentials and company details before committing to any offers or deals.
4. Avoid sending money to unknown or untrustworthy individuals or companies domestically and internationally.
5. Never share your banking or personal details with strangers.
6. Access websites directly rather than clicking on links in emails.
7. Look for evidence of a company's success rather than relying solely on testimonials.
8. Seek independent or legal advice when offers involve money, time, or commitment.
9. Report scams promptly and seek assistance.
10. Please don't feel embarrassed about reporting fraud; it helps prevent others from falling victim.

Mobile Phone Theft Prevention Advice

• Contact your network provider immediately to report a lost or stolen phone. Obtain the IMEI number from them if you don't already have it.
• Report the theft to the police using their online form or by calling 101. Avoid reporting lost property over the phone.
• Consider registering your lost property on websites like www.immobilise.co.uk or www.reportmyloss.com, which can provide reference numbers for insurance claims.