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Callcredit Response to the MoDs Data Breach

01 February 2008

The theft of data on 600,000 people, including serving members of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and the RAF sparks yet more concern about the high risks of identity fraud. According to the MoD, entries on the computer included passport details, National Insurance numbers, drivers' licence details, family details, doctors' addresses and NHS numbers.

Owen Roberts, Identity Protection Expert at Callcredit said:

“Data loss is becoming a far too familiar subject in the news. On this occasion 600,000 people’s personal details are at risk – this is extremely worrying for many members of the public and highlights the increasing risk of identity fraud.

Being a victim of identity theft can be devastating. We’d urge those at risk to start habitually checking their credit report in order to detect any irregular financial activity and prevent criminals from stealing their identity. By taking just a few simple precautionary steps it is possible to dramatically reduce your chances of becoming a victim of ID fraud and avoid the inconvenience and distress that a serious case of identity theft causes.”

Statistics

A recent survey commissioned by Callcredit, Experian, Equifax and Fellowes specifically for National ID Fraud Prevention Week found that:

• 80pc of consumers claimed to be concerned about becoming victims of ID fraud
• 93pc are unsure that they are taking the right steps in protecting themselves and believe that they could in fact do more
• 72pc of those surveyed had themselves been affected or knew someone who had been affected by identity theft

Callcredit’s top tips to protect your identity

Don’t throw your identity in the bin – always shred important documents

Keep passwords and PINS safe and don’t disclose them to anyone

Don’t broadcast your identity on the internet by failing to protect your PC

Keep a note of useful numbers to contact should you suspect you have become a victim of ID fraud

Make certain you are watching for warning signs by regularly checking your credit report on www.mycallcredit.co.uk

Owen Roberts is available for comment. If you would like to speak to Owen about the potential consequences of this data leak, please contact Sophie Smith on 0207 067 0415.

About Callcredit:

• Callcredit (www.callcredit.co.uk) is the UK's most innovative, state-of-the art credit reference agency, with an extensive range of information and value added services for businesses and individuals.
• Callcredit check (www.callcreditcheck.com) is the consumer arm of credit reference agency Callcredit, providing consumers with instant online access to their credit report and services to help them monitor their credit status.
• Callcredit has harnessed state-of-the-art information technology with an unrivalled knowledge of the industry's needs to develop a range of innovative information solutions. Solutions that are enabling major lenders and a host of other blue chip companies to address regulatory requirements, make better credit decisions, target new customers more effectively and manage existing customers more profitably.
• Callcredit is one of six core businesses that form the Callcredit Information Group. The other five are:
  • Database management company EuroDirect
  • Market analysis firm GMAP Consulting
  • Online payment service provider, Legatio
  • Scorecard development and affordability assessment specialist DecisionMetrics
  • Marketing services and database specialist, Broadsystem

For further press information contact: Jane Fordham, Katie Moore or Sophie Smith at the Callcredit Press Office on 0207 067 0600 or callcreditpr@golinharris.com

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