3 million car owners at risk of ID theft

Research from Direct Line Car Insurance reveals that one-in-ten (3 million) British car owners are putting themselves at risk of identity theft by forgetting to remove sensitive documents, such as bills and statements, from the view of opportunistic thieves. And a further 12% admit to having more than £350 worth of valuables in full view on either the front or rear seats of the car.

Yet, despite the fact that British cars seem to be potential goldmines for thieves, 7% of car owners admit they forget to clear their car seats and 6% concede they sometimes forget to lock their car altogether.

The most likely items to be left on show include: Clothes for the office (17%), Sports equipment (13%), Letters, bills, statements (10%), Work files (10%), Mobile phone (10%), iPod / MP3 player (4%) and Laptop (2%).

The following top five tips on car security may prove helpful.

1. Get a stereo you can remove and take with you.

2. Invest in a steering wheel or handbrake lock, for as little as £20.

3. Park in a busy, well-lit place or in secure parking.

4. Lock doors and close windows when leaving the car or making slow progress in traffic - it only takes a few seconds at a red traffic light for a thief to spot an opportunity.

5. Never leave keys in the car and don't leave possessions in the car especially valuables.

09 April 2008 © Moneyextra.com

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