Local MP Mark Hunter urges local residents to keep their personal details secure

4.54.13pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 29th Mar 2007

Mark joins the APACS campaign to stop fraud

Local MP Mark Hunter has joined the campaign to remain vigilant with their personal details following the recent announcement (14th March) that fraud on UK cards in the North West increased in 2006. Fraud in the North West increased from £33.2 million to £34 million. This increase is an important reminder that personal security is as important as ever as fraudsters continue to target people's cards, PINs, passwords and financial details.

To coincide with the publication of these figures APACS, the UK payments association, has published a Personal Security Plan that details the best ways for consumers to minimise the chances of being a victim. The Personal Security Plan is available to download from www.cardwatch.org.uk.

Speaking after figures were published, Mark said, "I urge everyone to remain vigilant about taking care of personal financial information. People need to take common sense precautions such as; looking after their cards and PINs, checking that the website you're shopping on is secure, and following up on any missing post from your bank or utility company. Remember, your personal details are valuable to others - and I urge all residents to take care of important documents and treat all your paperwork and bills as confidential information".