Don't throw Aussie credit receipts away 'unless ripped or shredded'

Bank account statements should be properly disposed of to protect against identity theft, one company has noted.

One company is advising people not to throw away their Aussie credit receipts unless they have been ripped up or shredded first.

Antivirus software firm AVG (AU/NZ) has recommended that people also properly dispose of bank account statements, utility bills and application forms among other items to try to ensure they are protected against identity theft.

Lloyd Borrett, security evangelist at the company, said criminals could open bank accounts in another person's name and use personal details to obtain a passport for themselves.

He added: "Essentially, identity fraud means criminals using your personal information for monetary gain."

And Mr Borrett advised individuals not to fall for emails that ask for credit card details, as well as usernames, passwords or any bank details.

These recommendations come after the Australian Bankers Association noted that three banks - which included major and second-tier establishments - had revealed fraud complaints from customers, the Australian Associated Press reports.

By Emma North