Identity Theft

West Mercia is a safe place but you can reduce the likelihood of your identity being stolen by following a few simple steps: 

COVER UP 

Make sure other people cant see or hear you when you are using a card over the phone, on the internet, in shops or at a cash point. 

KEEP IT PERSONAL

Don't keep your PIN with your card and never give personal or account details to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. A bank will never ask you for your PIN, security number or password by telephone or by email. 

ARE YOU EASILY DISTRACTED? 

Handbags left unattended can be snatched in busy areas without you even noticing. Be aware of strangers trying to distract you in shopping centres, supermarkets and other busy locations, and keep handbags and purses securely fastened. 

HAVE YOU BEEN CAUGHT OUT? 

If your cards have been stolen report online at www.westmercia.police.uk/report and contact your card issuer. 

If you think someone has found out your PIN, contact your card issuer as soon as possible so they can issue a new one, or change it at a cash point.