DOCUMENT and identity theft is the target for Essex Police this week as they join with many organisations to participate in National Identity Fraud Prevention Week from Monday, October 6, to Sunday, October 12. With over 65, 000 people falling victim to

DOCUMENT and identity theft is the target for Essex Police this week as they join with many organisations to participate in National Identity Fraud Prevention Week from Monday, October 6, to Sunday, October 12.

With over 65, 000 people falling victim to ID theft in the UK last year, the week aims to raise awareness and provide information on ways to prevent being a victim.

Police community support officers (PCSOs) will be holding meetings across Essex to advise members of the public on ID fraud. One PCSO in east Colchester is holding a meeting in Culver Street, on Monday, from 10am until 2pm, where the public will be able to shred any personal documents and mark up items of property with their post code using UV pens.

On Thursday afternoon, October 9, PCSOs will be in the foyer of Sainsbury's in Springfield, Chelmsford from 12pm until 3pm on hand to give advice and answer any questions the shoppers may have regarding ID fraud.

Here are a few easy steps that could protect you from being a victim:

* Carefully check through banks statements regularly.

* Use different passwords and PINs for different accounts.

* Store important documents i.e. passports, driving licence and bank statements in a safe place.

* Shred any document with your personal details (name, address etc).

* Ensure your home computer is protected from viruses and spy ware software.

Look out for posters going up in your area with any details regarding meetings, advice on ID fraud and contact details of your local officers.

For more information visit www.stop-idfraud.co.uk and www.getsafeonline.org