I’m a cyber expert and there are five essential tasks to do immediately if your online ID is stolen

NEARLY half of Brits report they have fallen victim to a cybercrime at some point so it’s super important to make sure you’re ready if the worst happens.

These can vary from scam text messages – which target around two in five adults – or dodgy phishing scam emails (38 per cent), according to a recent Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report.

GettyThe five must-do tasks if you’ve been caught out in an ID scam[/caption]

One of the most damaging ways people are hit is with their ID being stolen.

Experts from Norton shared with The Sun five essential things to do if you’re a victim.

1. Change your passwords

It’s important to change the passwords on all your online accounts.

Otherwise, the identity thieves could potentially access multiple accounts or even lock you out.

Check for any unusual or unexpected logins, which could tell you there’s a problem.

However, your priority should be securing all your accounts with new, complex passwords and two-factor authentication.

2. File a claim with your insurer

If you suspect your identity has been stolen, you should file a claim with your identity theft insurer if you have one.

It could be a standalone policy, or you may have this cover as part of your home insurance.

Identity theft insurance can offset any substantial costs involved or help with the legal fees that can result from identity fraud.

3. Tell your bank

If you think that any of your banking cards or accounts have been compromised, contact your bank, building society or credit card provider straight away.

Most of them will have emergency numbers you can use to check a charge, freeze your account or cancel a card.

The sooner you act, the less damage a cybercriminal can do.

4. Alert relevant companies

If you find a suspicious purchase on your card or discover that someone has used your name to open new accounts, you’ll need to follow it up with the relevant companies.

It’s important to explain the situation to them, close any accounts that were opened, and collect any relevant information before talking to the authorities.

5. Connect with the UK’s fraud prevention service

The UK’s fraud prevention service, CIFAS, is a great port of call if you’ve been affected by identity theft.

They can help you to figure out if something’s a scam, tell you what your next steps are, or suggest ways to secure a refund for charges made in your name.

It can be difficult to know what to do if your identity has been stolen so expert advice can make a real difference.

Users with Norton Identity Advisor Plus would receive access to an Identity Restoration Specialist who would guide you through these steps specific to the individual case.

This product helps individuals protect themselves against identity theft through Dark Web Monitoring, Social Media Monitoring, Credit Features and Stolen Wallet Assist, so individuals can act quickly if their information potentially ends up in the wrong hands.

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