Skipton offers free security checks for child benefit accounts

Savers with Skipton Building Society, whose account details have been compromised by the loss of two computer disks by HMRC, are being given the chance to take positive steps to protect their money.

The Society is writing to the holders of 1,700 accounts that currently have Child Benefit paid into them to offer six months’ free monitoring of their credit records, through MyCallcredit.

Steve Aldous, general manager, said, “The security of our members’ details is paramount, so when outside factors affect that, we want to help them protect their funds – not just with us, but wherever they are. Once our savers have set up their details online, MyCallcredit will act like a burglar alarm, constantly monitoring their credit record and sending a text or email alert as soon as any changes happen. That way, if the change has occurred fraudulently – for instance, if someone was trying to take out a loan using the saver’s details – immediate action can be taken.

“But it’s not just those whose account details have been lost that should take action. I would recommend that even those who aren’t directly affected should seriously consider monitoring their credit records, as incidents of ID theft are increasing and the need to be vigilant is becoming more pressing. People should visit our website at www.skipton.co.uk for full details.”