Jackal fraud is a growing crime, and occurs when identity thieves use the information of deceased persons to carry out fraudulent activities, either by stealing their birth certificates (which unfortunately are not connected automatically to the death certificate so still remain valid forms of identification even after death) or some other form of personal information from old banks statements through to old telephone bills.  Jackal Fraud is fast becoming identity thieves’ method of choice when attempting to carry out fraud in another persons name, as it is unlikely their crimes will be spotted very quickly, and they can get away with some significant fraudulent activity without being disturbed.  This activity may consist of fraudulently applying for new credit products in the deceased persons name, or even hijacking existing bank, credit card or mobile phone accounts that have not yet been sorted out by the family or the deceased persons solicitors.

Protecting Against Jackal Fraud
If a member of your family or a close friend does unfortunately pass away, then it is very important that you dispose of their belongings carefully and make sure you shred any unwanted papers with their name, address and personal details on before throwing them away.  Also make sure you store or dispose of any important identity documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates and passports securely, and treat them as confidential papers.  You should also make sure you have closed all of the deceased person’s existing accounts, from bank accounts through to telephone, mobile phones and utilities, and this will most likely require you sending a copy of the death certificate to the provider.  It is also a good idea to notify the three main credit agencies as well so that they can freeze any credit reports related to the deceased persons name, and this will help to prevent thieves from applying for any credit products using their personal information.

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