FSB: Smalls firms warned on corporate ID fraud.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) is urging the UK’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to ensure they are safe from corporate identity fraudsters. The warning comes at the start of National Identity Fraud Prevention Week (8-14th October). Identity fraud is still the UK’s fastest growing crime.

The FSB is emphasising that identity fraud is far from being an issue which only affects individuals, but is just as much a threat to small businesses.

The FSB advises SMEs to regularly undertake the secure destruction of sensitive documents, to check their financial status with credible reference agencies, and to ensure safe storage of data held on both customers and suppliers. The FSB also recommends that businesses be aware of anyone making unexpected requests for sensitive business information.

David Croucher-Jones, FSB Home Affairs Chairman, said:

“Preventative action is always much easier and less painful than having to take remedial action later on. Hindsight, when dealing with loss of money or critical business information, is a luxury that few small businesses can afford.

“The FSB welcomes any proposals to more effectively coordinate the national response to fraud across the board, including identity fraud between the government, the police and businesses.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

1. Further information on National Identity Fraud Prevention Week can be found at www.stop-idfraud.co.uk

2. A Populus poll revealed that identity fraud is the fastest growing crime. The poll was commissioned by Fellowes, CallCredit, Experian and Equifax, interviewed a random sample of 1005 adults aged 18+ by telephone between September 21st and 23rd 2007. Interviews were conducted across the country and the results have been weighted to be representative of all adults. Populus is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. For more details go to www.populuslimited.com

3. Small businesses employ 58% of the private sector workforce, contribute over 50% of UK GDP and make up more than 99% of all UK businesses.

4. The FSB is Britain’s biggest business organisation with over 205,000 members. It exists to protect and promote the interests of the self-employed, and all those who run their own business. More information is available at www.fsb.org.uk.

Contacts:

For interviews with FSB Chief Spokesman Stephen Alambritis or other senior FSB personnel please contact the FSB Press Office.

FSB Press Office

Matthew Knowles: 020 7592 8113 / 07917 628991

Simon Briault: 020 7592 8128 / 07917 628998

Belinda Webb: 020 7592 8121 / 07825 125 695

For regional FSB contacts please go to www.fsb.org.uk/regions