HAVING your identity stolen can be a nightmare, costing victims an average of £500 plus a huge administrative headache.
It tends to happen to people living in large cities like London but it can be stopped so easily. Dustbins and bin bags full of old bank statements, mobile phone invoices and appliance bills are a goldmine for the identity thief. Nearly half of all identity thefts last year were accounted for by stolen wallets and documents.
If you're looking for a practical gift, why not think about buying a shredder? It could save heartache for a friend or loved one.
SYED KAMALL Conservative MEP for London
