Warning Signs That You May Be an Identity Theft Victim

• Your credit card may enable a thief to undertake financial transactions in your name
  
  
• Your passport or driver's licence, or your social security number details, could enable an identity thief to pass himself off with your identity

• If bank, credit card statements and bills are being intercepted, there may be other subtle signs of a developing problem, for example, thank you letters, receipts, or follow-up promotions from companies you have had no contact with.
  
  
• You may encounter unexpected problems with financial services, such a hire purchase, loan, credit card or mortgage application that indicates your credit status has deteriorated. You can order a copy of your credit file from credit reference agencies to see whether it shows dealings with companies and transactions that you have no knowledge of.
  
  
• You may be turned down for a state benefit of some kind or social security payment on the grounds you are already receiving it - because an identity thief has already claimed it in your name.
  
  
• You may find that someone has taken out a mobile phone in your name, possibly signing up for an expensive contract.
  
  
• And, perhaps the biggest warning sign of a growing debt problem is if credit managers, financial institutions, debt collectors or solicitors try to contact you. This may well be by telephone if your mail is being tampered with.