Sunderland and Liverpool top list of UK fraud hotspots

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Callcredit Information Group has today published research which identified the areas most and least at risk of fraud across the UK, with Sunderland topping the list of 121 localities in the British Isles.

Over 50% of top ten most fraudulent areas fall in the North of England

Callcredit Information Group has today published research which identified the areas most and least at risk of fraud across the UK, with Sunderland topping the list of 121 localities in the British Isles [1]. Fraud costs the UK £30 billion a year [2], with credit card fraud totalling £440.3 million in 2009 [3].

Based on data including known fraud cases, house prices, the electoral roll, unemployment data and geo-demographic data, Callcredit has assessed the fraud status of these 121 localities that make up the UK. 

The research highlights the scale of fraudulent activity across the UK. Last conducted in 2008, the study shows that Sunderland, previously ranked as the 15^th most “at risk” area, has become significantly more exposed to fraud over the past two years. However, London has shown itself to be less at risk from ID fraud than two years ago with just three London districts making it into the top ten list, compared to eight districts in 2008.

John Cannon, Head of Product Strategy, Financial Crime of www.callcreditcheck.com comments: 

“The research shows the extent to which all areas of the UK now find themselves exposed to fraud but what really stands out is how the levels of risk are constantly changing. It’s important to be aware of the risk and to do what you can to protect yourself from falling victim. By checking your credit report you can see if you’ve been a victim of fraud and take the necessary steps to minimise any further risk.”

Over half of the top ten cities on the list are based in the North including Manchester, Wolverhampton, Oldham and Middlesbrough, while the research found that those based in the South East, including Guildford, Kingston and  St Albans, have been least affected by fraud.

Callcredit’s top tips to protect your identity

• Don’t throw your identity in the bin - keep track of your important documents and shred those you no longer need
• Always check your statements and watch out for small unrecognised transactions as these can be a precursor to serious spending by a fraudster
• Make certain you are watching for warning signs by regularly checking your credit report through services such as www.callcreditcheck.com
• Keep passwords and PIN codes safe and don’t disclose them to anyone
• Don’t broadcast your identity on the internet by failing to protect your PC

[1] Callcredit’s geo-demographic fraud product, GeoFraud [2] The National Fraud Authority (NFA) [3] UK Cards Association research published 30^th March 2010

Key statistics:

The top ten postal areas most at risk of fraud were ranked as: