Got phished today. Help!!

wiseguy80

Hello,

I got a text this morning about vehicle tax refund. Have recently sold car so thought of it as genuine. I foolhardily gave away info such as my NI Number, address, date of birth, bank account , Debit card number. Don't know what I was thinking

Have blocked my debit card instantly. Not sure what else can I do to prevent any damage.

Thanks

[Deleted User]

Given the amount of data you've given them, I would seriously consider applying a CIFAS marker so that applications need to be manually checked.

Candyapple

I would second the CIFAS protective registration.

https://www.cifas.org.uk/services/identity-protection/protective-registration

Be aware that the National Insurance number is not a means of identification but if it falls into the wrong hands it can be used as a means of counting towards proof of identification. It can also be used if someone living in the country illegally wishes to work.

What Happens if I Lose My National Insurance Card?
You may apply to Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for a replacement card but you can only do this once. If you have lost your card or feel that your National Insurance number may be being used for purposes other than it was designed then you should contact them immediately and report your suspicions.

Do not carry the National Insurance card with you if there is no requirement to do so and never pass it to any organisation for proof of identification because – as we have already mentioned – the National Insurance card is not designed to be proof of identification on its own.

For more information you should contact Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) – your local office will be listed in Yellow Pages – or visit their website at https://www.hmrc.gov.uk.

http://www.aboutidentitytheft.co.uk/your-national-insurance-number.html

wiseguy80

Many thanks for the information and suggestion. I have now registered with CIFAS. It's quite eye-opening once you start reading about identity theft and what it entails.