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Firms 'not taking steps to prevent identity fraud crimes'

Published on 12 Oct 2009 under category: legal

Many firms are not taking adequate measures to safeguard consumers from identity fraud crimes, a new study has suggested.

Research from the National Fraud Authority revealed that 36 per cent of the 1,000 people asked were unsure if their company had a comprehensive policy regarding the handling of sensitive information.

It also found that 64 per cent of respondents had thrown documents away without shredding them first.

The study also showed a 36 per cent spike in people becoming victims of identity fraud.

Tyron Hill, a spokesman for National Identity Fraud Prevention Week, commented that the threat of these fraud crimes is "real and current".

He advised: "Even simple steps, like thoroughly shredding any documents with your name and address on them, will help to minimise your exposure."

This comes shortly after Neil Munroe, a spokesman for Equifax, commented that instances of identity fraud crimes tend to increase when "times get tough".

If you require advice on Corporate Fraud please call us on +44 (0)20 7831 0101 and ask for Dan Hyde.