Fraud warning for women's handbags
Beware bagsnatchers
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Friday, 18, May 2007 03:10
Women are placing themselves at increased risk of credit card or other financial fraud by carrying around vital information in their handbags, a survey suggests.
Credit reference agency Equifax have carried out a poll showing that 80 per cent of women always have their credit and debit cards on their person.
With other items like payslips and cheque books also clogging up their handbags, Neil Munroe of Equifax warns the risk of fraud in the event of a bag-snatching is extremely high.
"While everyone knows they should cancel credit and debit cards and mobile phone contracts if their bag is stolen, they may be less aware of the other items in their bag which could lead to them becoming victims of fraud," Mr Munroe said.
"Our advice is that people should only take out with them what they absolutely need for the day, and women in particular should always keep a close eye on their handbag, in order to minimise the risk of falling victim."
Some 22 per cent of British women keep their National Insurance number in their handbag, with 32 per cent also keeping receipts in their bag, the survey found.
Four women in five were found to carry their house keys in their handbag, along with proof of their home address.