Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information (online or offline) and uses this information to carry out a fraud. Once an individual has your personal information, they may sell it on to a criminal; use it to apply for credit in your name or simply buy goods using your credit card details.

It's hard to keep your personal information private when surfing and transacting on the Internet but you can limit the information you give out and still enjoy the experience.

Tips to help you protect yourself

• When disposing of a Personal Computer ensure the hard drive has been securely wiped. Reformatting the hard drive may not be adequate. 
• When using social networking websites ensure that you limit the personal information you provide about yourself.
• Do not supply personal or security information (i.e. Registration Number, PAC numbers or Code Card numbers) on emails or through phone calls requesting such information.
• Only share your primary email address with people you know and tell them it is private.
• Set up a specific email address for shopping, newsgroups, marketing etc.
• Only make online purchases from companies that have a clear privacy policy.
• Use a strong password and do not share it with anyone. A random combination of numbers, letters and special characters with at least 8 characters and changed regularly is recommended.
• Keep a record of what information you have supplied and to whom.

What you should do if you think your Identity has been stolen

• Notify your financial institution(s) immediately.
  
  AIB (ROI) - Contact your branch or Phone & Internet Banking Customer Service Advisors on 0818 724 724 or +353 1 771 2424.
  
  First Trust Bank - Contact your branch or Phone & Internet Banking Customer Service Advisors on 028 9034 6034 (08.30 to 17.00 Mon to Fri).
  
  Allied Irish Bank (GB) - Contact your branch or Phone & Internet Banking Customer Service Advisors on 028 9034 6060 (08.30 and 17.00 Monday to Friday).
• Change your PAC and or/passwords immediately.
• Request a credit report from credit bureaus.
• Contact your local Garda Síochána/Police station.