Survey reveals that we live in one of UK's top ten hotspots
A recent survey released by credit specialist Experian has confirmed that we live in one of the top ten areas at high risk of identity fraud.
According to the Victims of Fraud Dossier, published by Experian, the figures have been able to identify UK hotspots and those groups most targeted by fraudsters, using data analysis from more than 10,000 identity fraud cases. The figures confirm that identity theft has risen by 66% - Experian had dealt with more than 6,000 victims sought help from the credit reference company victims of fraud team during 2007, compared to just over 3,500 in 2006.
Kensington is the Capital’s identity fraud hotspot, with an average risk score of 352.31, residents – on average – three-and-a-half times as likely to fall victim compared with the UK average. Residents of Chiswick (275.67) and Hammersmith's King Street (275.30) are also amongst those at highest risk – being over three-times more likely to fall victim.
The analysis also found victims aged 26 to 45, who were homeowners earning more that £50,000 a year were at highest risk. Likewise, those either at director level or running their own businesses were the most at-risk consumer type, being almost three times more likely to fall victim, while highly successful and well-paid directors were two-and-a-half times more likely to become a target.
UK's Top 10 Most at Risk Places (At Risk Rate) |
| Kensington (352.31) Richmond ( 330.51) Putney - (320.07) Wimbledon (306.95) Chelsea - Kings Road (302.91) Chiswick - (275.67) Kingston upon Thames - (275.34) Hammersmith - King Street (275.30) Wandsworth - Clapham Junction - (256.26) St Albans - (252.21) |
Helen Lord, Experian director of fraud and compliance, said the rate of identity fraud growth was worrying and coincided with the increasing involvement of organised criminals.
"Although some people are statistically more likely than others to become a victim, we should all be concerned," she added. "We are all potential victims."
June 13, 2008