Web planning applications open door to ID theft

Councils refute Cifas claims

Councils and property experts have refuted claims that online planning application sites leave people open to identity theft.

The UK’s Fraud Prevention Service, Cifas, says planning application web sites set up by local councils make applicants’ names, addresses, phone numbers and signatures available to criminals.

Cifas chief executive Peter Hurst says the information, when combined with other personal data, can aid identity theft.

‘This is Christmas come early for identity fraudsters,’ he said.

But Chris Kendall, director of the government’s Planning Portal, which provides resources to local authorities, says there are already guidelines about what data should be made available.

‘Clearly there are issues, but the only difference between the web and offline is 24/7 availability and that it is available from wherever you are. There is clear guidance to local authorities,’ said Kendall. ‘This data has always been published and people can view it over the counter because as a citizen you have the right to object to planning applications.’

A spokesman for one London local authority says it is unlikely criminals will use rudimentary personal details to commit fraud when there are far richer sources.

‘People chuck out unshredded credit card statements, telephone bills and health records,’ the spokesman told Computing.

The council advises citizens never to put signatures or email addresses on documents that could appear on the web site.

‘We also take down details once a planning application is closed,’ said the spokesman.

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