Identity Theft

Identity theft is a serious problem in the UK. There are two types of identity theft that could be used in association with credit cards. They both use your personal information to open new accounts or to gain control of your existing credit card account.

Fraudulently obtained personal information can be used to open a new credit card account in your name. You may have a good credit rating that the criminal wants to utilise to obtain a large credit limit. A thief can build up an idea of your personal identity by stealing utility bills, old bank statements or other documentation. They may also create counterfeit documentation with your name and address on, in order to pose as you when making a credit card application.

Alternatively, a criminal may use your identity to gain control of your existing credit card. They can do this by posing as you and contacting your card provider. They may then change your address details so that a new card can be issued to them instead.