Released on = March 17, 2007, 4:49 am

Press Release Author = Suffolk First

Industry = Consumer Services

Press Release Summary = According to figures just released from the Home Office,
identity theft is one of the fastest-growing U.K. crimes. Their figures show that it
is increasing more than 500% each year.

Press Release Body = According to figures just released from the Home Office,
identity theft is one of the fastest-growing U.K. crimes. Their figures show that it
is increasing more than 500% each year.

There are many different reasons as to why the statistics on identity theft have
increased so dramatically over recent years, especially with advances made in
technology. The growth of computers and the Internet in the world of today has been
exponential, making it so much easier for people to be able to steal someone else\'s
identity.

Identity theft can occur in a variety of ways. Thieves steal individuals personal
information to take over their credit accounts, open new ones, take out a loan, rent
a flat, access bank accounts, or commit many other crimes in someone else\'s name and
at their expense. Such crimes include obtaining state benefits, driving licences and
most lucratively passports all in the victim\'s name.

When it strikes, the effects can be devastating. What\'s more, because it frequently
involves no physical theft, identity theft may not be noticed by its victims until
significant damage has been done, which is often several months and thousands of
pounds later.

A person who has had their identity stolen will find it difficult to getting loans,
credit cards or a mortgage until the matter is sorted out.

In addition to personal and financial losses there are other negative repercussions
associated with identity theft. Some of those additional possibilities may include
research actions taken by other entities to ensure that the individual being
researched has a flawless background. If the background check is conducted on an
identity theft individual the report may reflect false information. For example a
potential employer may run a background check on an individual to ascertain whether
that person is reputable for an employment position. A background check on a person
who has been the victim of identity theft may reflect an illegal action performed by
the person who assumed that identity.




Web Site = http://www.arthritisinfo.org.uk

Contact Details = Michael Saville