ID theft feared by 80% of Welsh

Identity thieves could run up huge debts in your name

Eight out of 10 people in Wales are worried about becoming the victim of identity theft, according to a poll.

The survey also found 88% of Welsh people thought the UK government should do more to protect individuals.

A group of MPs, including Lembit Opik, MP for Montgomeryshire, is to sign an Early Day Motion on Monday calling for the government to issue guidelines.

ID thieves use stolen personal and bank details to run up debts, take out loans or falsely claim benefits.

Research published by Which? magazine earlier in March indicated that a quarter of people in the UK now claim to have had their identity stolen or know someone who has.

At present (identity theft) is far too simple and virtually risk free Lembit Opik MP

Frequently, thieves find the details they need to steal someone's identity by sifting through rubbish bags and bins.

It is claimed that organised crime gangs will pay a thief for each individual piece of personal information handed over.

Just one piece, such as a date of birth or driving licence number, is needed to illegally construct a false identity.

An estimated 130,000 people suffered identity fraud in 2004, according to the UK Fraud Prevention Service, up from 101,000 in 2003.

Of the Welsh people questioned in this most recent survey, 87% believed the government should issue definitive guidelines on the proper destruction of personal details.

Details can be stolen from bank and credit card statements

The MPs signing Monday's motion hope that by issuing clear guidelines about the Data Protection Act and effective disposal of information, businesses and people will be clear on how to make it harder for criminals to steal identities.

Mr Opik said: "(Identity theft) is the fastest growing crime in the UK and urgent action is needed to educate the public on the simple steps they can take to protect themselves.

"Whilst the vast majority of people agree that that shredding or burning information containing personal details is the most effective way to destroy it, a large proportion of the public still dispose of complete bank statements and credit card or utility bills without making any attempt to render the information illegible.

"It is only by educating the public on the risks involved and the most effective ways to destroy personal information that we will begin to make identity theft more difficult for criminals.

"At present it is far too simple and virtually risk-free. It is time for the government, and the public, to get tough on identity theft."