What's in your hangbag?

-- Make sure all is well with your credit

Women are leaving themselves particularly vulnerable to ID fraud simply because of what they carry in their handbags, a new survey by the credit reference agency Equifax has shown.

The survey revealed that 80% of women carry their credit and debit cards around with them at all times.

While this figure alone might not be surprising, when combined with the 22% who said they also keep their National Insurance number and 32% their receipts in their bag, it becomes clear why women's bags are such a prime target for identity thieves.

"Information is a prime asset these days", confirmed Neil Munroe, a Director at Equifax. "And, according to our survey, women are carrying around enough information for a fraudster to apply for loans, mortgages, credit cards and bank accounts in their name."

More worryingly, the survey also revealed that 80% of women carry their keys along with proof of their home address, giving fraudsters instant access to their home and compromising their personal safety.

And what makes these findings particularly alarming is the fact that 23% of women who said they had been victims of ID fraud, said it was as a result of personal belongings being lost or stolen.

Munroe continues: "While everyone knows they should cancel credit and debit cards and mobile phone contracts if their bag is stolen, they may be less aware of the other items in their bag which could lead to them becoming victims of fraud."

Top 10 items you shouldn't keep in your bag

1. Cheque Book - Gives ID thieves account numbers and sort codes, and if you leave the address form on the front, home address too!

2. Credit Card Receipts - Could reveal card numbers and provide access to an account by using information on recent transactions.

3. Payslip - Reveals NI number, address, employer and salary details, ideal for fraudsters!

4. Bank Statements - Could be used to open further accounts or for accessing personal information.

5. Utility Bill - Could be used for ID verification when applying for credit or opening up a bank account.

6. Driving Licence - Provides valuable personal information such as address and date of birth.

7. Gym & other Membership Cards - These could potentially give access to personal information.