Keep valuable documents secure

When you're not using them, items such as passports, birth certificates, cheque books and receipts are best kept in a locked drawer. Please also remember to keep your cheque books separate from your bank cards at all times.

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Destroy all unwanted paperwork

It's vital you look after any identity documents such as your passport and driving licence.

Don't give criminals a leg up. Always shred all important personal and financial paperwork when you don't need it any longer. If you don't do this, criminals could establish your name, address and other details by going through your household rubbish and then use any information they gather to apply for credit, goods or services in your name.

Paperwork to shred includes:

• Old bank, credit card and financial statements
• Old credit card receipts
• Any partly completed application forms carrying your personal details
• Insurance renewal notices
• Partly completed Direct Debit or Standing Order mandates
• Any mail-shots with your name and address on them

Also, don't forget to cut up all expired plastic cards.

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Keep your bank updated

We may need to contact you from time to time to confirm details of certain transactions on your account, should they look unusual in comparison with routine items normally seen. This can significantly reduce the impact of financial crime.

It's crucial that if you change your name, address or contact telephone numbers (including your mobile number), you let us know immediately.

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Check your statements

Much financial crime can go undetected for long periods, simply because victims are not aware it has happened. It may be weeks or months before fraud is spotted.

It's therefore vital that you carefully check all bank, credit card and any other statements when you receive them. If there are transactions that you don't recognise, please report the details immediately to your branch or card issuer. They will then be able to help you sort out the problems.

Remember that your post could be invaluable information in the wrong hands. So if you fail to receive a bank or credit card statement or any other expected financial information, tell your bank or card issuer. If you are in the process of changing address, make sure you arrange to have all your mail re-directed.

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Don't fall for email scams

Phishing (pronounced 'fishing') is a con trick used by criminals to get hold of your personal information. Never respond to any unexpected or suspicious emails - and don't click on any attachments within such emails.

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