Identity theft

It's not just your house that can be broken into - your computer is just as vulnerable to intruders.

Using spoof emails and websites, hackers can acquire your financial details, steal your identity, and then steal your money. In fact, identity theft is the UK's fastest growing crime. But there are ways you can minimise your chances of being a victim and stay safer online:

• Check that your email security settings are at an optimum level.
• Use a secure computer (eg your home PC) to check online details such as bank or credit card accounts, rather than public computers such as those in libraries or internet cafes.
• Fraudsters may send you an email asking you to click on a link to a false website for your bank. Always access your bank's site by typing the address in the browser address bar (eg www.natwest.co.uk).
• When giving personal details on websites, always check for 'https' in the browser address bar and/or the padlock symbol at the bottom left/right of the web page you are viewing.
• Consider installing encryption and/or firewall software on your PC or laptop to help protect sensitive information you have stored.
• Be especially wary of emails claiming that you've won a prize. The chances are you haven't.

- Protect yourself from the phishing fleet