Tips to keep fraudsters at bay

LONDON (Reuters) - Fraud losses hit a record high last year. Here are some tips to keep the fraudsters at bay:

* Be aware of when to expect bank and credit card statements and alert providers if they do not arrive as expected.

* Check statements and bills and keep them for 12 months. And shred confidential mail.

* If you move home, redirect your mail for a reasonable period of time and leave a forwarding address with the new occupiers. Inform all relevant parties, including your bank, credit card company, mobile phone and utilities providers of your change of address.

* Be careful when using ATMs. Ensure there are no strange devices attached to the card slot or keypad. Shield your PIN. Make sure no one is watching.

* Never divulge any of your personal details, such as passwords and PINs. Take safety precautions when giving out personal information over the Internet or phone.

* Shop at secure websites by ensuring that the security icon (locked padlock or unbroken key symbol) is showing in the bottom of your browser window.

* Give away only the minimum details on social networking sites and make sure you understand privacy settings.

* Use different passwords and PINs for different accounts. Change them regularly.