Could tenants be at greater risk of ID fraud?

Identity fraudsters are increasingly targeting Britons who live in rented accommodation and may be on a lower average income than the traditional wealthy victim, new research has found.

According to a study by CreditExpert, the Experian ID fraud protection service, said this trend is likely to have arisen as such tenants are likely to have personal information which is more vulnerable to fraudsters.

Indeed, the research revealed that those living in rented flats or houses in or around cities make up the top three groups of those most likely to fall victim to fraud, with young professionals renting property in London the most at threat.

Indeed, such people are more than twice as likely to become victims of identity fraud than the average person.

This may mean that those looking for flats to rent in Shoreditch or another part of London may wish to take extra care to protect their details, as shared hallways could prove an easy target for mail interception.

When moving into a new home, they should also ensure they have their post redirected to their new address.

The Guardian recently reported that what security is available for bikes could also influence Londoners' renting decisions.

Written by Martyn Glynn

Published 9th November, 2009

© 2009 Estates IT Limited