Not enough protection against identity fraud
Not enough protection against identity fraud
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By Darren Estwick. |  |
Monday, 12, Oct 2009 12:30
By Richard James.
Businesses are not taking proper precautions and are continuing to put their customers' identities at risk, a new 'survey' has found.
According to research carried by the National Fraud Authority, 97 per cent of employees are not totally confident the firms they work for are properly protecting sensitive information.
The report shows 71 per cent of employees - the highest figure in Europe - think the organisations they work for could do more to protect against identity fraud.
Despite continual warnings a third of businesses still don't know or are unsure if they have a comprehensive policy in place on how to handle potentially sensitive documents, the survey found.
The report has been launched to coincide with National Identity Fraud Prevention Week which aims to encourage businesses and consumers to do more to protect information.
Financial experts claim identity fraud costs the UK economy in excess of £1.2 billion every year.
Tyron Hill, National Identity Fraud Prevention Week spokesperson, Fellowes, said: "Businesses need to do more to inform their employees and reassure their customers that they are handling data responsibly.
"For example, it is shocking that nearly two in five employees still do not have access to shredders at work with which to destroy sensitive information.
"Today's customers are more vigilant and informed when making decisions - businesses that are seen to do more to protect data are at a competitive advantage over those that aren't, which can directly affect a business' bottom line, especially during the recession. With the right resources, businesses and consumers can work together to ensure identities stay protected."