I was shocked to find out that 64% of British adults do not understand how to protect themselves against identity fraud. To combat this the government is running it’s fourth annual National Identity Fraud Prevention Week this week (6th-12th October 2008). They are hoping that by raising awareness people will be able to protect themselves better and some of the £1 billion identity fraud costs the UK economy will be reduced.

In a spoof public information film consumers are told the importance of shredding documents. Whilst the video is cringe worthy it’s message is a good one and is echoed by the BBC One Show’s (and local Brummy) Adrian Chiles. “National Identity Fraud Prevention Week is a great campaign that is focused on communicating to consumers and businesses the dangers of identity fraud and the preventative steps that could – and should – be taken. With a wealth of good advice coming from organisations at the forefront of the identity fraud battle, Britons would do well to pay attention. This week is the time to listen and to act on the advice being offered. I hope everyone takes note of the simple steps that can be taken to protect their identities so we can stop handing our identities to fraudsters on a plate.”

Recently one of our clients fell victim to corporate identity theft where their website was cloned to a very similar address and customers were encouraged to pay deposits for the company’s services to the fraudster. As well as disrupting business and costing the client money these kind of attacks can seriously affect the reputation of a business.

Check out the National Identity Fraud Prevention Week website at www.stop-idfraud.co.uk to read more and get top tips for protecting yourself and your business.