The credit reference agency Experian has named East Ham in London as the area people are most likely to be the victims of identity fraud.
East Ham is a hot spot for identity fraud in the UK according to new research by Experian - experiencing 27 identity fraud attempts for every 10,000 adults. Overall, London experienced 11 attempts for every 10,000 adults.
Other identity fraud hotspots include Birmingham, Manchester, Stretford in Manchester, St Albans in Hertfordshire, Sutton Coldfield in Birmingham and Slough.
The national average for identity fraud was 4 attempts for every 10,000 adults.
Experian said victims are now being targeted in more affluent towns near the UK's major cities - typically younger couples living in new homes, with average incomes and a high demand for credit.
No surprise
Nick Mothershaw, UK and Ireland director of identity and fraud at Experian, said: "It comes as no surprise that the capital remains a target for third-party fraudsters - particularly around densely populated inner-city boroughs where identities are easier to steal.
"However, fraudsters are clearly attracted to rich pickings in more affluent areas, where access to an identity might be harder to obtain but the prize makes it worth the extra effort.
"Clearly, identity theft is not just confined to inner-city areas but is a UK-wide problem and a symptom of tougher economic times, highlighting the need for people everywhere to be increasingly vigilant."
For further information visit the Experian website.
Please note that Action Fraud is not responsible for the content of external websites.
To report a fraud and receive a police crime reference number, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use our online fraud reporting tool.
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