Identity Theft
With many thanks to Andrew Noyes of SSAFA:
IDENTITY FRAUD
If you think Identity Fraud does not occur in Cyprus, or for those of us living in Cyprus, then think again. The SSAFA Branch in Cyprus, which aims to meets the needs of all those ex-servicemen and their dependants or widows who live in Cyprus, both North and South, recently assisted an elderly lady in Paphos to reconcile her Bank and Credit Card statements. The credit card was seldom used and paid off in full by direct debit. Her current account was topped up by automatic transfer from a deposit account.
The lady’s concern was that the current account was overdrawn. Investigation revealed several credit card transactions had taken place in Israel, Mexico, America and Australia amounting to several thousand Pounds.
Full cooperation was received from her Bank and full reimbursement was made but there was no real evidence as to how the fraudsters obtained their information. Consideration should therefore be given as to how to protect your own identity, whether in Cyprus or abroad.
1. Shred everything that contains personal details, especially bills, bank statements and credit card slips. Do NOT throw them out with normal household rubbish.
2. Check bank and credit card statements for transactions you do not recognize and query them immediately.
3. Know when your cards are due to expire and call the supplier if the new card does not arrive on time.
4. Try to choose a debit or credit card provider who requires you to activate the new card with a telephone call or on-line.
5. Do not keep important documents where a burglar breaking into your home or car could easily find them.
6. If you move ensure that the postal authorities redirect all your mail and notify every card and mail-order provider of the new address.
7. Periodically check your credit file which will show if any credit applications have been made in your name. This can be done for a small charge through credit reference agencies e.g. Experian (0800 656 900 or www.experian.co.uk) or Equifax (www.equifax.co.uk).
8. Never reveal your PIN number or Password to anyone.
9. Shield the keypad when entering your PIN so no one else can see you do it.
10. Do not allow your debit or credit card out of your sight in restaurants or shops.
11. Never reveal the three digit security number on your credit card to anyone who contacts you. If buying by telephone call, call the company yourself and on-line only use the number on secure websites (this address should change to “https” when you are asked for payment details.
12. If you lose personal documentation (eg in a burglary) ask your credit card company to execute extra checks.
Andrew Noyes
Chairman
SSAFA Branch Cyprus