Our five-step action plan to beat fraud

BE VIGILANT If you have a password or PIN code that relates in any way to your personal life or is easy for others to remember, change it immediately. It is also a good idea to change your password once every year or so as a precaution against thieves. CREATE A STRONG PASSWORD

Go for something random using ‘mini journey imaging’. Take your time working out what you will use – your financial security is at stake. Consider a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols. IMPROVE MEMORY SKILLS

With strong imaging you should not forget your password. There is nothing wrong with writing it down but only somewhere hidden and safe. Write it in a code form and do not keep it in a wallet. USE TECHNOLOGY Take advantage of ‘password manager’ software – but trial it first before making a commitment. Some companies are now embracing biometrics that can read fingerprints, irises of an individual’s eye and speech patterns that add another valuable layer of security. REPORT CRIME Check bank statements every month and be wary of any unusual messages via email or post indicating someone else could be using your identity. Be wary of so-called ‘phishing’ and never share passwords. Report anything of concern to police at Action-Fraud.