O2 customers concerned that they may have been affected by the O2 data leak should remain vigilant and be aware that they may be at increased risk of scams and phone phishing attacks (fishing for sensitive, personal information). Direct Line home plus customers have access to an Identity and Online Fraud Assistance service that helps to protect against such threats. Further information can be found at http://www.directline.com/home/garlik.htm

Stuart Curson, head of home insurance at Direct Line, comments: “Direct Line home insurance customers who have access to the online and identity fraud service should make sure they add their O2 number to their DataPatrol service, in order that any further disclosure of their information can be monitored.

Curson continues: “Worried or affected customers who have the service should contact the Direct Line fraud assistance line for further advice and support. If they think they have already fallen victim to a phone phishing or scam attack then CIFAS (UKfraud prevention service) protective registration can be provided at no additional cost.”

Direct Line Home Plus benefit from Identity and Online Fraud Assistance

DataPatrol (powered by Garlik, the online and identity theft experts) is available to Direct Line home plus customers as part of an Identity and Online Fraud Assistance service and provides:

• Prevention
  Daily monitoring of your personal and financial information to check that your personal information has not been disclosed online, giving criminals the means necessary to begin to steal your identity and commit fraud

• Detection
  Monitoring to check if your personal or financial information has already been stolen and could immediately be used to commit fraud
• Support
  Instant alerts by text and email if your information is found, plus access to the Garlik Care service that provides immediate advice and help should you become a victim of fraud or, if you just want further advice, on how to protect yourself from fraud. The Garlik Care service is accessible via phone and email.

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Notes to editors

For further information please contact:

Claire Foster

PR Manager

Direct Line

claire.foster@rbs.co.uk

020 8285 8682

07900 217 264