Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information and uses it to impersonate you. They can carry out fraudulent activity such as trying to access your accounts, opening a credit card account in your name or getting payment from a supplier.
Tips on how to stay safe:
Be careful when posting personal information online, including on social media. The more information you post online about yourself the easier it may be for a fraudster to steal your identity.
Never give your card PIN to anyone.
Cancel lost or stolen credit and debit cards immediately.
Lock all valuable documents away. Ensure they are in a secure place.
Ensure to clear all information on your device before selling it
Shred confidential information. Always shred any confidential information such as bank statements or cheque books before you throw them away.
Inform all service providers promptly when moving address. Set up a mail forwarding arrangement.