Protect your information to protect your credit score
Criminals can gather information about you from social media, dodgy emails, messages or data breaches.
They may even contact you impersonating a genuine organisation to trick you into giving away your information.
Criminals use this information to apply for loans, credit cards and other services in your name leaving a negative impact on your credit score.
Although it’s possible to correct this information, it can take time, making it difficult to obtain a new bank account or credit until resolved. Left unresolved, bad debts can stay on your record for six years.
What to look out for
- An unexpected drop in your credit score or rejected credit applications
- Letters or emails for services you didn’t apply for
- Sudden calls from debtors for borrowing you weren’t aware of
- Unexpected account withdrawals
- Letters going missing in the post
These are all signs of a scam. If you think you have been targeted by criminals, contact us immediately using the number on the back of your card.
How to Protect yourself
- Take your time. Don't be rushed into giving out personal details or making sudden payments
- Be careful what you're sharing on social media. Criminals can use your posts as a gateway to your data
- Keep your personal documents safe. Use a shredder if throwing documents away
- Don’t give anyone remote access to your computer or install any software to your devices following a cold call or unsolicited message
- Register for biometrics within the app as an extra level of security which helps to protect you against fraud
Protect yourself and others – visit our Security Centre to find out more.
Biometric Approval is available to eligible mobile app customers aged 16 or over.