Your National Insurance Number

Originally written by Jack Claridge, updated by the editorial team on 9th September 2026

What is a National Insurance number?

A National Insurance number is a unique personal number used throughout your life in the UK. It consists of two letters, six numbers, and a final letter. Once assigned, it stays with you permanently and helps the government track your National Insurance contributions and tax records.

HM Revenue and Customs uses your National Insurance number to link your earnings and contributions to your personal record. This record determines your entitlement to certain state benefits, including the State Pension. Employers need it when you start a job, and you will be asked for it when applying for benefits, student loans, or opening certain financial accounts.

Your National Insurance number is not proof of identity on its own. It should not be treated as a form of ID in the way a passport or driving licence would be.

When and how do you get one?

If you were born in the UK and your parent or guardian claimed Child Benefit for you, you will usually receive your National Insurance number automatically. It arrives by post shortly before your sixteenth birthday. You do not need to apply for it.

If you did not receive one automatically, or if you have moved to the UK from abroad and have the right to work, you will need to apply. You can start an application online through GOV.UK. Jobcentre Plus, which is part of the Department for Work and Pensions, may then ask you to attend an interview or provide documents to verify your identity.

The letter you receive confirming your National Insurance number is the official record. National Insurance cards ceased production in 2010, so while some people may still have their old cards, new ones are not issued. Keep your letter somewhere safe. If you lose it, you can find your number through your personal tax account on GOV.UK, on your P60, on your PAYE coding notice, on previous payslips, or on letters about your tax, pension or benefits from HMRC.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Why it matters for identity theft

Using someone else's National Insurance number without permission is illegal. If a fraudster obtains yours alongside other personal details, they may attempt to work under your name, claim benefits fraudulently, or use it as part of a wider identity theft scheme.

Because your number is linked to your earnings and tax record, any misuse can create problems that take time to resolve. You might find unexpected employment records appearing on your file, receive tax demands for work you did not do, or discover that someone has claimed benefits in your name.

To reduce the risk of misuse:

Only share your National Insurance number when required by legitimate authorities or processes, such as your employer, HMRC, or your pension provider.
Exercise caution with any unsolicited contact requesting your number. HMRC will not contact you out of the blue to ask for it.
Avoid carrying documents showing your National Insurance number unless necessary.
Ensure secure disposal of old paperwork containing your National Insurance number by shredding.
Review your personal financial documents and records regularly for any discrepancies.

What to do if you think your number has been misused

If you suspect someone is using your National Insurance number fraudulently, contact HMRC as soon as possible. They can check your record for any unusual activity and advise on the next steps. You can report the issue through the GOV.UK website or by calling the National Insurance helpline.

You should also check your credit report for any unexpected accounts or applications. The three main credit reference agencies in the UK are Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Reviewing your report can help you spot signs that your personal details are being used elsewhere.

If you believe you are a victim of identity fraud more broadly, report it to Action Fraud, the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. They can provide a crime reference number and guidance on protecting yourself further.

193 questions

Ask About Identity Theft a Question

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 09/09/2026 at 11:22 am

@Freddy Sorry to hear that, having your wallet nicked is horrible. Report it to the police straight away if you haven't already, and get a crime reference number. Then ring HMRC on 0300 200 3500 to flag your NI number as potentially compromised, and contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. It's also worth setting up a Cifas Protective Registration (costs about £30 for two years) so lenders do extra checks before opening credit in your name. Keep an eye on your bank statements and credit file over the next few months too.

Freddy 09/09/2026 at 11:22 am

I had my wallet stolen on Friday 4th September and my national insurance card was in it

Bhanu 06/06/2020 at 1:39 am

Some one useing my national Insurance number to claim their taxes. What should i do now ..?

Hammie 01/06/2020 at 4:19 pm

I have written a short story which I was going to publish on KDP - part of Amazon in America. As it may sell, they wanted my TIN number which I understand is my National insurance number in the UK. I am very scared about divulging this to an American company. Could you advise please?
Thanks
Brenda

Cal 20/09/2019 at 11:06 am

An agency asked me for a copy of my national insurance number just to get me register with them. I refused to divulge it and they said it is company policy to ask for it so I said I was removing from them. Is this right?

Rosie Seamark 03/09/2019 at 5:31 pm

Hi,
My purse has been stolen containing my NI card. What should I do?
Rosie

Rosie Seamark 03/09/2019 at 5:30 pm

Hi
My purse has been stolen and my NI card was in it...what do I do
Rosemary

Atif 31/08/2019 at 2:13 am

Hi,
I just found out that my first employer ha using my NI without my permission even after I left job from there.i left job from there in 2015 but on 29 August I received letter saying I owe *** this amount so I have to oy tax but when I look at the statement my old employer paid me salary which is for 5 months.but I stoped working for him in 2015 should I report him to police that he has used my NI without my consent and I wasn’t working there????

Alf 28/08/2019 at 12:08 am

My wallet was stolen during summer 2019. My bank cards and my National Insurance card were in my wallet.

I cancelled my cards, reported it to the police and told HMRC.
Should I have told Action Fraud?

Im worried about my National Insurance number falling into the wrong hands.

Annie 23/06/2019 at 5:43 pm

My postbox was broken into & a wage slip stolen. I’ve received various enquiries from banks about accounts that have been opened in my name. I’ve just accessed my credit report & discovered 22 recent applications for insurance in my name that I did not make.
I am terrified.

Zarabb 24/05/2019 at 4:22 pm

Hi I had a friend at mine the other we are now In a argument n she’s now saying she’s got my NI number and she’s going to use it. What can she use it on a part from working somewhere pls??

Fari 03/05/2019 at 4:23 pm

My house is been burgled last month and I noticed that my national insurance number card was in one of my stolen hand bag. Now I am worried about my national insurance number if someone misuse that don't know what to do.

rolf24 05/04/2019 at 10:42 pm

Hi. Last year I noticed a change in my HMRC account, and I have seen that someone used my personal details, to make 2 employments. I called twice at HMRC, to explain that I can't work in 2 places, I living in northern Ireland, and those 2 jobs being in England. Nobody contacted me, since I called,and also there is nothing modified in my account. I don't want to pay taxes for jobs I never had. What can I do? Thanks

Holly 01/02/2019 at 9:43 am

My purse was stolen with all my cards including my N.I. card. Where can i report this being stolen?

Tina 29/01/2019 at 9:22 am

Someone has stolen my national insurance number
Please can you help

Tina 29/01/2019 at 9:21 am

Hi some one has stolen my nation insurance number
.please can you help me

Liljo 11/10/2018 at 11:09 pm

I had a hoax caller and I told them my national insurance number and other personal detail, I have sent an email to fraudalert but is there anything else I can do. Many thank in advance

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 07/08/2018 at 12:37 pm

I am sorry to hear this. National Insurance (NI) numbers can be used to claim benefits and tax credits, and/or can be accepted by employers to prove the right to work legally in the UK. It is always best to report it stolen as a preventative measure.

Grace 04/08/2018 at 9:34 am

My purse has been stolen. In it amongst all the rest is a piece of paper with my N.I. number. Can this be used for anything? I am retired btw.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 28/06/2018 at 12:29 pm

The Action Fraud link here should tell you all you need to know.

Wendy 28/06/2018 at 2:39 am

What step do I can I take? Someone is using my National insurance number and name to work elsewhere

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 25/06/2018 at 12:20 pm

, which will tell you all you need to know.

Carlee Editor 20/04/2018 at 12:21 pm

@Nugget - yep, you cannot breathe these days without everyone knowing. :(

Nugget 08/04/2018 at 7:20 pm

I am trying to renew my car insurance and for the first time ever, I am being asked provide my driving licence number and my National insurance number. I am very security conscious and am reluctant to give these details.

Having googled this, it seems that this is required for them to check up to date details on your driving licence from the gov.uk website. However, as far as I understand it, the way this should work is that the person looking for insurance should input these details on line and the system then provides a time limited access code which the person gives to the insurance company for them to check for themselves. This then obviates the need to disclose all these details.

It seems that insurance companies are not being transparent in asking for these details. The other thing is, who decided that the NI number should be used in trying to verify DVLA information? Does this mean that the DVLA and various government departments share all your data? Big brother truly abounds!!

Babe 09/03/2018 at 9:13 pm

I have found out today that my old employer is paying someone in my name using my national insurance number what should I do

Dorin 09/03/2018 at 11:00 am

Hello,

Someone stole my wallet and I hade inside all my documents, included my National insurance number. I have a copy of it, but there is something worse I have to do, maybe if they sell it to some one?
Thank you

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 20/02/2018 at 3:29 pm

If you wish to know why your employer asked for the NI numbers, you would have to approach your employer directly to ask.

Floren 16/02/2018 at 8:39 pm

I'm self employed and work with a taxi company. The company asked some of the drivers for their N.I without specific reason. Could it be something illegal?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 12/02/2018 at 10:03 am

Please see the Action Fraud whichwhich should tell you all you need to know.

Cosmi950000 11/02/2018 at 2:45 am

My insurance number was stolen what should I do?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 09/02/2018 at 12:01 pm

You can see more whichwhich should help answer your question.

Sahil 08/02/2018 at 6:36 pm

Hi Someone is using my NI number for last 2 years I send a letter to hmrc told them it’s fruad I didn’t work in this company but still they are using my NI what should I do

Noemino 02/02/2018 at 7:04 am

Hello, my ex employer used my nin even l'm not been working foto him for over 1 year, my income get higher, l had to pay back benefits and pay tax

Skypeller 01/02/2018 at 4:13 am

Would my employer of the last 14 years have changed my address with hmrc when I told them if my change of address? That’s to only thing I might have done wrong, possibly not changing my parents address to my first home address (same town)

Skypeller 01/02/2018 at 4:10 am

I got told when trying to hire a car last year that my NI number didn’t add up to my name. I shrugged it off and over Xmas holidays remembered to get it checked, upon calling NI helpline I was told the number I had on my NI card doesn’t tie up with my name I’ve lived in uk since birth, am in my 30s and the cards never left my parents house!! I’m going through a very slow process to sort this mess out with NI as I’ve paid tens of thousand into NI since I was 17! I’m worried NI won’t sort it or will just stop trying to sort it out. Nothing can be done over the phone it’s all via mail!

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 21/12/2017 at 3:33 pm

You can see more which

Lou 21/12/2017 at 12:03 pm

Hi I have change my surname and was wondering how to let ni know about it do I write email ECT

JackG Editor 21/12/2017 at 2:09 pm

@Kat - you would be unlucky for it to a) be noticed and b) fall into the wrong hands. So, the chances are that nothing will happen.

Kat 21/12/2017 at 8:18 am

I lost my payslip outside work. It has my name, address and NI number on it. Could a fraudster do anything with the details or would they need more information.

ChloeMJ Editor 30/11/2017 at 3:54 pm

@Blacksheep - sounds like someone has made a rookie error!

Blacksheep 30/11/2017 at 11:04 am

My employer has just changed to sending out our wage slips by email. They have, however, used everyone's NI number as their passwords on the emails. Surely this is at the very least foolish, and at worst, against Data Protection?

Aa 20/11/2017 at 10:04 am

I tried to apply for NI number, but been told that someone had applied for it using my personal details. How can I report this fraud?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 17/10/2017 at 9:59 am

I think you need to ask your sister what she could possibly want your NI number for and of course, you are absolutely under no obligation to give it to her.

Gsetoarngneard 16/10/2017 at 7:33 am

I got a weird text message from my sister asking for my national insurance number what should I do? At the moment I'm not telling her.

Ade 15/10/2017 at 1:20 am

I could not remember if I had applied once for National Insurance Number and I recently submitted application for replacement, what could be a penalty on me, please can anybody advise me? If I have not applied and have submitted application for replacement, what could be the punishment?

Johjo Editor 09/10/2017 at 11:33 am

@Razz - employment agencies generally need this information, so I think it's OK.

Razz 08/10/2017 at 12:40 am

Hi, I was contacted by a recruitment company and they requested copies of my national insurance number and passport for future job applications, so I can register with them, this is what they said. I mention that this info is not for a current job application, interview or direct served to a employer, not yet. What should I do, I am legally required to give them this information?

PaultheNewt 01/10/2017 at 11:16 pm

I have seen several people on this thread ask about supplying their NI number to insurance companies. You have answered that yes this is sometimes required to check for speeding fines etc. WHY? Insurance companies often ask for your driving licence number (it helps identify you) and the reg number and possibly the VIN of your vehicle. The DVLA deal with motoring matters and the insurance companies will check with them using driver and vehicle details. HMRC and Benefits people will require your NI number for income tax, pension and benefits matters. Do not confuse the two

Cal89 Editor 26/09/2017 at 12:36 pm

@Saz - you can give your passport for ID purposes. Sometimes landlords will ask for NI numbers
so that can apply for an attachment of earnings order through court - if the tenant leaves a pile of debt behind.

Saz 25/09/2017 at 8:21 pm

Hi My landlord keeps asking me for my National insurance number and has said they need it for Identification purposes, I don't think I should give it to them as anyone in that company can have access to it. I can't understand why they can't Identify me by my address. Am I obligated to give it to them. I always thought it was for tax and national insurance purposes only? Dose anyone have any advice for me please. Thank you.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 31/08/2017 at 9:54 am

Please see Action Fraud whichYou can report fraud or cyber crime to Action Fraud any time of the day or night using our online fraud reporting tool. You can also report and get advice about fraud or cyber crime by calling 0300 123 2040.

Rae 30/08/2017 at 7:07 am

Hi there I have just discovered that a family member has been using my ni number whilst i have been abroad. I have been away for 10 years and Am not sure what the best thing to do is.

Jake584 11/08/2017 at 4:42 pm

I would always urge anyone now to report lost NI number. As I lost my card about 20years ago. And have had issues with someone else using it. Obviously resulted in TAX issues but not only that but also received court letters for fines. Then it stopped for a number of years and has again re started with exactly the same court letters HMRC saying I'm owe tax
But it is now again being investigated!! It is becoming a joke it's been a nightmare.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 01/08/2017 at 11:53 am

If you have lost your NI number you should contact HM Revenue and Customs. If you are concerned that you could become vulnerable to identity fraud, you might wish to contact CIFAS, the UK's Fraud Prevention Service, to apply for protective registration. Once you have registered, CIFAS members will carry out extra checks whenever anyone applies for a financial service using your address.

omg 31/07/2017 at 11:59 am

Hi I was out on a night out and lost my purse with my national insurance card ,bank card,provisional driving licence inside and I don't knw whether I need to ring hmrc please help

Sam 29/07/2017 at 2:00 am

My employed has accidentally published my name, national insurance number and date of birth online in a public domain. Am I at rush if identity theft?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 25/07/2017 at 2:31 pm

Car insurance companies may ask for your NI number to access the information through the gov.uk website using an individual's licence number, national insurance number and postcode. This is to clamp down on fraud, so companies to check speeding endorsements and other details

Bevie 24/07/2017 at 11:05 pm

Hi there, my new bf wanted to put me on his car insurance. In order to process the quote he said he needed my NI no, I didn't give it to him and said I didn't want to go on his insurance, as I was very wary and didn't believe my NI had anything to do with car insurance, am I being over paranoid or was I right in not disclosing such personal info?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 10/07/2017 at 2:09 pm

You would have to contact HMRC directly via which

mima 08/07/2017 at 12:06 pm

I applied for my NI number when iwas 18, i got the letter a few weeks later but sudenly i had to travel abroad and i left my letter in england thinking i would come back soon, unfortunately i could not come back and was abcent for over 3 years . Im confused on what to do, i cant find my NI number and i want to apply for a job. Im more afraid if somebody has stole my identity. I cant remember my last adress and i have no letters or proof of where i lived and would like advice on what to do. All i have is my passport to prove my name. i need some advice on what to do quickly. thankyou.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 07/07/2017 at 11:00 am

You can contact Action Fraud via which

Kwig 06/07/2017 at 5:36 pm

Think my NI number has been stolen who can I contact to prevent anything being created in my name for a few months or so ?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 16/05/2017 at 12:52 pm

You may wish to contact DVLA directly to ensure the call is legitimate

Slim 15/05/2017 at 9:45 pm

Hi there,I clicked on a link on Saturday just gone that was supposed to be from the DVLA and asked for all sorts of personal information including my national insurance number could you please tell me what I should do about my n.i.n,thanks Joe.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 05/05/2017 at 2:28 pm

You would have to contact NI via whichYou cannot cancel anything via this site as we are not part of HMRC.

ivan 04/05/2017 at 11:27 pm

Good day I am ivan dirda and I would like to cancel the insuran number because I leave to go to the Czech rebublikky I come back to the house spjet and so I want to cancel the thank you may adres

Emjay 01/05/2017 at 9:39 am

I work in the travel and tourism industry and over recent months Welcome Break Services have been asking all Tour Managers and Coach Drivers to give / write down their NI Number when we check in. Can somebody at the Gov.uk please tell me if this is legal, as we are not happy about this and I believe it is not legally allowed. I was told never to give out my NI number or to write it down in a public place. Can this be clarified please. Thank you.

H 22/04/2017 at 11:30 pm

Can someone give me advise for what to do if my national insurance card has been stolen. I know the number but the card is missing. It was in my wallet but I was robbed today. Shall I get another number or not.

Staffie 22/04/2017 at 1:29 pm

I have received a hand delivered letter on 19/04/2017 claiming to be from HMRC Stating i owe just under 5 thousand pounds. I knew straight away it was fake and tried reporting it to HMRC They told me to send letter in and they will try to look into it. I have also contacted the police who told me to contact ActionFraud. They have given me someone else to contact on Monday.
I am very worried about this letter as it was not only hand delivered it also contains my correct NI Number.
How can someone get it and what can they do with it?
Also i just keep getting passed around, who do i need to contact?
Thank you

ed1 12/04/2017 at 9:54 am

Hi,
Iv just applied for a overseas teaching job. The agent is asking for my NI number to make sure I'm not a paedophile, but surely it cannot be used to check that. Of course im more than willing to do the Disclosure (old CRB).
Is this a scam?!

Vee 29/03/2017 at 12:52 pm

My daughter owed me some money, & asked me for my bank account number and sort code. She also asked me for my NI number, which I thought a bit strange. Do I have anything to worry about, especially as I know she is short of money?

Lufc 22/03/2017 at 5:54 pm

Just had a phone call about a, serps 01925 648873 gave my n-I-n thinking that it was ok to a man, I had seen something on Facebook about finding lost money but it also said lookout for this phone no 01134470166 that's a diferan phone number can someone please check the first number as I.am worried, I've tried ringing but nothing just music

lorraine 22/03/2017 at 4:16 pm

I need advice quickly.
The HR dept where I work has just called me to say that when they were processing year end payroll the name for my national insurance number had changed.
The name just happens to be the same as my ex husbands partner.
I'm still trembling as it was a big shock , I'm 52 years old and have never had any issues like this before. Can't speak to my ex - we parted because of his violence/abuse.
Why , how would anyone want to change the name ?
I'm really worried , thank you
Lorraine

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 22/03/2017 at 11:59 am

You don't say who your F-i-L thinks he has given his NI number to. Therefore it makes it difficult to advise.

Andy 21/03/2017 at 7:06 pm

My father-in-law was talked into giving his NI number to someone over the phone, should this be reported? He is 86 and has no idea of the implications involved.

Su 07/03/2017 at 5:56 pm

Same here tax office told me my tax is underpaid £2000. They say I was working for two employers at same time. I work for same company from last 4 years,never work for anyone else,never heard of the second company "A.D.S. construction Ltd"they called. Now they say its under investigation any one knows how long does this "investigation" take. I don't know what to do. Paying very high tax at the moment as my tax code has been changed. Really annoyed

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 02/03/2017 at 12:27 pm

You can report this via Action Fraud

Curtis 01/03/2017 at 2:16 pm

An ex of mine worked for HMRC several years back and bragged that they'd taken home a few NI numbers but said they were going to destroy them. Since then we have split up and I've bagged up their belongings and discovered these names and numbers along with another of their ex's bank statement, wage slip and credit rating! Is there someone I can contact about this such as HMRC and is there a number I can call and/or email address?
I certainly don't want these in my possession and very concerned about the acts of this person and if they have taken any identity from me.

Lucy 27/02/2017 at 8:10 pm

Hi, I use to work in uk in 2012/2013. I have NINo but from the end of 2013 I am in Bulgaria and I haven't work in uk.I am wondering is it everything alright with my Nin? Is it there something that I need to worry about?Because I don't know how to check.

Marcc 26/02/2017 at 11:58 am

Hello, I want to ask, my Nino arrived, but I got just a letter with a specific Nino, but I don't have any Nino card. And my agency wants from me to sent this Nino paper to them. Is that okay? And will the Nino card arrive later or should I do something about that?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 20/02/2017 at 12:24 pm

You would have to get in touch with the National Insurance offices directly - there should be a telephone number on the correspondence you have received.

Louise 11/01/2017 at 8:09 pm

Hi. Can a national insurance card be used to find someone's bank details out ? I currently filled some details regarding a tax rebate and gave them my name and address and also my NI number so I'm not worried in case they can find out my bank details too ?

PRA 23/12/2016 at 8:31 am

My employer had a data breach of my NI number and it took them over two months to inform me of the breach. This seems too long. Are there any time requirements of informing victims in such circumstances ?

BD 22/12/2016 at 8:53 pm

I received a P800 form telling me that I had underpaid tax by £400 because I had two jobs at the one time and wasn't being taxed properly on the second job. I have not had two jobs at the one time and the second company I have never even heard of!!! Has someone used my NIN to secure employment?

I informed HMRC straight away and it's currently 'under investigation' and when I called them earlier I was told that this 'company' hasn't replied to HMRC in 6 months to confirm that I have never worked for them?! Why would it take a legitimate company 6 months to tell them that they have no record of me working there?

What should I do? Pay the tax just now and reclaim later when this mess is sorted or let this progress with interest being added to this amount owed?

Please help I'm completely in the dark here.

A.K 20/12/2016 at 3:54 pm

I was waiting on a letter from HMRC - my new tax code. It always has a note of my FULL national insurance number, FULL name (including my middle name but thankfully not my date of birth. They say they sent it on 23/11/16 and as it's not here yet, it's lost in the post. I've had lost important mail go missing about August 2016.
I'm very concerned that I'm at risk of identity fraud.

Le 08/12/2016 at 2:41 pm

Hi I had my national insurance card pinched from my ex mum 8yr ago and today I've only just found out, can they use it to get a loan from the job centre? For example a budgeting loan? Really worried.
Thank you.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 08/12/2016 at 2:11 pm

You would need to sort this out with your employer and your HMRC tax office directly. If this is your only employment, and you are not otherwise self-employed then you should not be paying tax if you earn less than £10,000. You may also wish to check your tax code which in 2016-17 is 1100L (2015/16 – 1060L), as it represents £11,000 of tax-free income.

Jo 08/12/2016 at 1:02 pm

Hi I currently get child tax credits an have been since my so was born in 2012 but it recently stopped and when I checked the gov gateway tax credits it's someone else's name etc, iv had my NI number since I was 16, NI have changed all the details back but I'm having trouble with tax credits getting them to sort it is a nightmare does anyone know who I can contact about this as I don't know if it's fraud or anything as they have my NI number on someone else's tax credits account ??

Vhp 08/12/2016 at 12:31 pm

My ex employer has been using my NI without me knowing and i have been paying tax every month and few weeks back I received a letter saying i have to pay £700 tax to HM. Like seriously how can I pay that much as I don't work full time and my yearly income is less than £10,000. I'm not interested to pay the £700. Someone tell me what to do

Idiot 02/12/2016 at 3:21 pm

I foolishly believed my no ex that he was putting my name on the farm buiness for a farm he had ust bought in Huntly and as part of it I had to fill out a section with my name and NI number on. This was only done in the last month, since then we have split up so I called the SGRIPD office to have my name taken off but it seems he must have filled out another form and only put his name on it. He denies he has the form with my name on it and that they must have shredded it in Invenurie but I am worried now about its whereabouts and who might get hold of it. I know I was too trustingand already feel Ive been duped so go easy on me please.
Thank you

Dee 01/12/2016 at 12:05 am

Hi!
Had literally left a rucksack in my car outside my house for a few minutes. In those few minutes the rucksack was gone. The car was broken into but had no damage. It appears there is a device that can open Ford Focus cars easily....anyway... In the bag was my mother's bank statements, her bank cards, her National Insurance number on various letters and what she gets, council tax letters, Bank cards and my drivers license.
Is there anything I can do to protect my mum and myself now? I have reported the bank cards and statements to the bank and the police.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 07/11/2016 at 11:02 am

It is unlikley anyone from the council would need to request this. If you are at all suspicious (which you have good reason to be) then you may wish to contact Action Fraud here to speak to someone who will be able to clarify your question.

C7are 06/11/2016 at 4:04 pm

Hi can the council come to your home on a Sunday saying they need your national insurance number...

Coops 30/10/2016 at 2:21 pm

I have been asked to provide my national insurance number to an insurance claim company after a road accident. Should I give it to them. They say they can't progress the claim without it as it is only to check to see if I've already made a v Liam against this accident

Abs 28/10/2016 at 3:47 pm

Apparently I worked for a company and was "paid" a salary. Apparently, I also paid income tax of £20 for the 1 week that I apparently worked for this company and received a tax refund of £20.

No I did not work for this company and have not done so ever nor have I ever received a salary from them or any tax refunds with regards to this salary.

But HMRC can confirm my National Insurance number was used in 2015 for employment purposes.

It certainly wasn't used by me and I did NOT work for this company.

Does this sound like FRAUD and/ or IDENTITY THEFT ??!!!

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 25/10/2016 at 12:12 pm

If you think the company may be fraudulent, you would have to contact Action Fraud here. However, it is standard procedure to when applying for a CPCS card to ask for your name, date of birth and National Insurance number.

DWill 24/10/2016 at 3:00 pm

Someone who commits compensation scams & benefit fraud has got my NI No. DoB, full name & the city I live in. He knows a lot of personal details about my life, bank details, finances, people in it etc...

Should I be worried about fraud?

He will use any means to get money or disrupt someone's life of he can't get want he wants.

I have called up HMRC & the person I spoke to was very dismissive.

Please advise.

Eddi 24/10/2016 at 1:31 pm

I have given through the phone my details together with my IN number to help me apply for a CPCS card.I think this is a fraud can you please tell me how to prevent any person fom using my NI number.Please this is urgent.

Toby 22/10/2016 at 3:55 pm

I was called a couple of days ago by someone claiming to be from the Dept of Work and Pensions. He said they had received a letter to me returned as undeliverable, and wanted to check my address and NI number so they could resend it. As I can remember my NI Number I gave this quickly before I realised that this was probably a scam. Initially I wasn't too concerned as the NI number is printed on so many documents these days it's almost "public knowledge" but I'm increasingly concerned that the caller will use it for identity theft. Is this possible, and if so is there anything I can do to try to prevent it?

Lgibbo 20/10/2016 at 7:35 pm

I ve been asked by compensation claim people for my NI no do they need it or shall I not bother

Doherty-t 12/10/2016 at 5:41 pm

Hi! I was getting a quote for car insurance with acorn insurance company. They asked me for NIN. Is it a genuine company or can they be fraud and use my NIN for something dodgy? You can never be too careful about NIN, you know. Thank you

dan 11/10/2016 at 8:30 am

i have been working since leaving school in 2006,my first job with the local council and then on to other jobs always using the ni number assigned to me,i have just been informed i am not using the right number although i have for ten years and that im not who i say i am,has anyone else experienced this?

Shia 07/10/2016 at 1:33 pm

Please answer this earlier query. I'm in the same situation!

"I have just been asked to providemy NI number, Name, Dob To stand as a guarantor for a student whowants to rent a room...Are these information relevant or it it an identity risk to provide such information?"

Goji - 26-Sep-16 @ 11:49 AM

svc1406 05/10/2016 at 6:23 pm

I always wonder what someone/anyone can find about me from my NI No. DOB? Address? Place of Work? Etc etc?
Or is it just that I am registered to pay Tax and NI?

Goji 26/09/2016 at 11:49 am

I have just been asked to provide my NI number, Name, Dob To stand as a guarantor for a student who wants to rent a room...Are these information relevant or it it an identity risk to provide such information?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 20/09/2016 at 12:27 pm

Yes, if a college requests your NI number this is OK and it will be used for administration purposes and kept confidential. A certified college is unlikely to steal your identity.

Hannah 19/09/2016 at 3:03 pm

I'm 21 yrs old and I applied for a no fee GCSE course in a college. On the enrolment form they were asking for NI but I left it blank. Now the college is telling I can't enrol without writing my NI on the form. Should I be worried & do they have the right to ask for NI for a free GCSE course?

Assel 07/09/2016 at 10:42 pm

Hello I was too by my HR officer that Job Center plus send a form asking to fill and sign requesting my details I work full time and pay all my taxes someone using my identity to claim benefits, I called Job center plus to inform them about this.. What shall I do call police as well?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 30/08/2016 at 11:47 am

Yes, you would need to report this. The gov.uk site here will point you in the right direction.

HayleyO 29/08/2016 at 3:49 pm

I put in my credit card details and my national insurance number into what I thought was hmrc tax refund, but I realise now it was a scam. Should I contact someone as they now have my ni number? I'm worried about what they can do with it

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 18/08/2016 at 1:50 pm

It wont affect you directly, but you might wish to let the Jobcentre know it has sent out the wrong information.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 15/08/2016 at 10:42 am

Many thanks for your interesting comments and points raised.

Kate 14/08/2016 at 8:42 am

A National Insurance number is not a secure way of identifying anyone. The Government dont even treat it in a secure manner. No matter how hard you try to keep this number secure, the Government print it on bank statements that can go to anyone. Whats the point of you trying to keep it secure if they are using it for anyone to see?

Emma 12/08/2016 at 12:17 pm

I have recently been sent a letter from the job centre which I had to fill out and send back. This letter contained someone else's name & their national insurance number. I don't know if they have sent this person my details, will this effect me in anyway?

Jan 06/08/2016 at 5:21 am

Is it possible to use your brothers national insurance number (obviously if you are male also). I believe that someone is doing this. Looking up his name revealed his correct age range and address for the early 2000s. Then even though all other details are correct, address and name his age range is wrong but would be correct age range for his younger brother. I have reported said person for benefit fraud and tax evasion based on his national insurance number but nothing has ever been taken any further and I was wondering whether this could be because he's using his brother's national insurance number and paying tax (when he says he was working) and benefits now he is claiming not to be working (but I know that he is still working).

Emmy 03/08/2016 at 11:52 am

Hello, I know an illegal immigrant who is using a fake Italian ID card, I know his NIN and name, I provided all facts I know to the police and border agency months ago and no action has been taken so far

Zac 29/07/2016 at 9:12 pm

I was using N I Number since 2004 which is given by my employer even I got NI card also
Got Tax Refunds. Also !! I received a letter from HMRC stating that send your correct NI Number and details we don't have your correct details !! I called them b4 years also told them I received letter like this ! I send all my p60s to them last 12 years ! And again I received a letter again ! Is it a scam or send by HMRC

Rg554 05/07/2016 at 7:47 pm

I was told recently at the Job Centre that I was at risk of Identity Theft by putting my National Insurance number on my CV which is on numerous job search engines online. They have been there for months, but only recently I have changed my CV and removed my NI number from all websites. But I am still very concerned about the fact it has been there for such a long time, nothing to my knowledge has happened but it still bothers me that it might have, could it have been appropriated and used for misconduct?

I have also been getting a large volume of cold calls on my mobile which has obviously been obtained from CV on my Job Search page, they keep asking for personal information, don't know if there's any relation.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 04/07/2016 at 10:19 am

Please see Action Fraud link herewhich will help you further.

Ali 03/07/2016 at 3:00 am

Hi,
Around two years back, I was always charged 20% of my weekly earnings towards ni and tax, when I enquired they wrote me back with the name of the shop.. And mentioned that I have been working two places, I have never ever done 2 jobs in my life.
After much research I finally found out which shop used my NI NUMBER..
What are my options ? I have been a victim of identity theft. Can I make a claim against the owner of the business ?
Please help me in this issue.
regards,
Ali

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 27/06/2016 at 2:32 pm

Please see WorkSmart whichIf you have lost your NI number, then you need to report this.

Jk 27/06/2016 at 8:20 am

I had lost my NI number in the year 2008 while i left the country and i realize that only after a couple of months. I had not reported it so far since as i thought i dont need it in future.
But now again i need to come to UK for a new project.
Please advice me what should i do to get a new one, also what will be the effect if it has been misused by some one else.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 21/06/2016 at 10:21 am

Please see gov.uk link here for who to contact.

Jess 20/06/2016 at 9:09 am

Hi there iv recentley been scammed through what they call a tax refund mby people saying its hmrc they had all mt details such as bank card an ni number. Iv delt with the card issue but what do i do about the ni card please do i have to report it? If so who too?

Meg 16/06/2016 at 6:00 pm

I was scammed previously this week and would like to know what I need to do about them taking my national insurance number.
Thanks,
Megan

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 10/06/2016 at 12:00 pm

You need to either speak with your employer directly about this. You need to try to rectify the documentation that has the wrong surname on, the surname that is not yours.

Joe 09/06/2016 at 2:53 pm

Ive had my no card for a while and realised that when I get my payslip there is a different surname to what I've got on my ni and I've never had that surname why?

Jess 08/06/2016 at 3:50 pm

I wrote a application form for a job and my national insurance number was on there and then a member of my family lost the application form as insurance town in the streets should I be worried about my national insurance number being used and if so what should I do?? Help me

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 06/06/2016 at 1:02 pm

Yes, the letters are age defined.

Murtonped 19/05/2016 at 7:18 pm

While applying for a job I was asked for a photo Id, name address ni number and driving license no is this acceptable?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 10/05/2016 at 2:50 pm

Please see gov.uk link here for more advice on what you need to do.

Stace 10/05/2016 at 8:20 am

I have recently found my ni card after about 12 years and didn't realise it has my old name on it but I've always used my current surname ever since I've been working. Ive always known my number off by heart so never found the need to get a replacement but didn't realise the name on it and didn't know you had to inform them of change of address what do I do? Can anyone advise me on this please?

B2theboy 28/04/2016 at 2:23 am

My NI number was used by someone halfway across the country to claim jobseekers and I'm now being fined because of it. What can I do so this doesn't happen again??

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 05/04/2016 at 11:20 am

I can only suggest you telephone the insurance company, not by return number but via the telephone number registered on the website (to ensure you are speaking to the correct company). You don't say whether it is a reputable company or not - but the key here is to ask what they want the NI number for (asking for your drivers licence number is understandable, but an NI number is not as it would mean the insurance company can log in to your online government licensing details). It’s a criminal offence to obtain someone else’s personal information without their permission - please see gov.uk site; 'view or share your driving licence information' here. I don't suspect there is any foul play, but it may be that the insurance company is taking liberties by asking you for your NI information.

Millie 04/04/2016 at 10:26 am

I have just renewed my car insurance and was asked for my driving licence number and national insurance number. I am now worried thati should not have given these details what can i do?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 15/03/2016 at 1:42 pm

You would need to report it to the Police, if you haven't already.

Lukey 14/03/2016 at 3:51 pm

My Car got broken into last night and my NI card got stolen, what do I need to do

Thanks

Neil Ball 03/03/2016 at 11:03 am

I recently applied for a job through an agency and they asked me to come in and register with them they asked me to bring in my birth certificate , passport , a letter with my address on it , my bank card and a copy of my national insurance number from the government.
So I went down to there office and the first thing they asked is what can I do for you I told them I'm here to register for a job they said cool can I take a photocopy of your details I said sure. next thing she said was she needs my bank details I said ill have to text my wife she has my card ill get them from her and she said that is no good we need to photocopy both sides of the card. then something told me this doesn't sound right I challenged her why do you need to copy both sides and she said its for security reasons. Then walked over to the copy machine and said my birth certificate isn't real I said of coarse it is I used it to get my marriage certificate and to apply for a passport then her behaviour changed when I asked for my details back she became very strange and insisting that she takes a copy. I had to ask her three times for my details back. and as I was leaving she said English **** I couldn't believe what she said I just walked away. In my eyes and with her behaviour she seem to want to keep hold of my details so badly it was just very odd. just be safe everyone with your details because they can be sold on by anyone that seems legit

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 29/02/2016 at 1:54 pm

You can gain more information and contact Action Fraud via whichI hope this helps.

Roz 28/02/2016 at 8:46 pm

Hi
A copy of my local government pension scheme which details my previous job, name, address and national insurance number has been emailed from a hacked email address and gone into a bogus email account. What should I do please and what are the risks involved?

sar 26/02/2016 at 2:25 pm

Hi
I have accidentally emailed a file containing my national insurance number, personal information of my full address and benefit, social security ifetails to a lady in Kenya, instead of a copy of a receipt of items sent to charity. I am now worried this could be used for illegal/ fraudulent activity. Iv tried phoning the benefits center andcould not get to speak to a person. What shall I do?? Please help I am really concerned.
Sarah Palmer

Deedee 19/02/2016 at 2:11 am

I lost my wallet on a day out while I had my NI card in it. what do I need to do ?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 15/02/2016 at 2:12 pm

Please see WorkSmart link herefor information on what you need to do. I hope this helps.

Sam 15/02/2016 at 11:02 am

I have lost my NI card - do I need to report this? I have documentation showing what it is so don't necessarily need to apply for a copy but should I still report losing it?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 04/02/2016 at 1:59 pm

I'm afraid we cannot predict this. However, if he is an illegal immigrant and has committed a criminal offence then it is usual that he would be up for deportation. If he is an illegal immigrant, you can report him via which

Niknak74 03/02/2016 at 8:37 pm

My daughters father is an illegal immigrant who has lied and abused me and my family. He has recently been prosecuted for using a false passport and identity docs and he only got 6 months suspended sentence and 150 hours community service. I know that he used his brothers NI number and also gave the CSA false details will he get prosecuted for this or will he get away with this crime aswell???

rill i am 30/01/2016 at 1:39 pm

Hi I worked for a media company in P.boro uk for six years, throughout this whole time they were using a different NI number on my payslips than my real one. After i left and started at a new job, my new employer was very concerned, we contacted solicitors and HMRC themselves about this. All HMRC said is that 'sometimes numbers can be mis -read' and to contact the National Insurance Contributions Office which i did. They fobbed it off and said all my contributions had been paid into my REAL number/account throughout the whole time, and wouldnt say anymore about it. I questioned my previous employer about this and they became very defensive and claimed they couldnt tell me about it for 'security reasons'. This is highly suspicious and given the nature of this company and the type of people who work there I can only conclude I have been victim of a sophisticated scam which involves creating an entirley new ficticious entity/person with which various connected corrupt people can offset accounts/identities/insurance/life insurance documents to build up a profitable crime 'patsy' or 'fall guy' which creates untold amounts in revenue when used within uk council/nhs/police reporting procedures. If the employer in question does not respond to a Subject Access Request regarding this issue or gives a flimsy reason for not using my correct NI number for six years, is there any non corrupt agency that can help me find out the truth?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 13/01/2016 at 11:45 am

You will need to report this - please see Action Fraud whichI hope this helps.

Nicole 12/01/2016 at 6:10 pm

Hi my name is Nicole I need some advice.

My bank account was recently hacked on which all my money was taken this has all been sorted out but now someone has hacked my emails and is applying for loans and have sent one loan company my payslip which has my NI number on and everything, what can I do about this can I apply for a new one or can something be sorted ?

Look forward to your response

Kind regards
Nicole

Adrian 11/01/2016 at 10:49 am

My Walet was stolen while I had my NINO in it. Can please advise me what I need to do ?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 06/01/2016 at 10:03 am

I'm afraid you would need to contact the HMRC directly regarding this question. You can do this via the gov.uk site here. If you cannot get through by phone (as it can be difficult), then you may prefer to put your query in writing to the address given in the link. I hope this helps.

Laura 05/01/2016 at 2:01 am

Hey, I'm Laura and I started working from the age of 16, I worked in a restaurant in Northern Ireland for 3 years. When I first began this job I was asked for my bank account number and my national insurance which was given in! With me still being in school at the point and not earning over the limit to be taxed at I wasn't checking my pay slips! But the employee that done the books was very lead back about pay slips and some staff members found it nearly impossible to ever receive one! When I turned 19 I wanted to change my job, which I did, I left one week notice and was soon working a month later in a clothes shop, I return to zios to ask for my national insurance as it was more convenient, I spoke to my ex employer about my national insurance number and she mention how I have some pay slips to pick up, this should state my national insurance number! PA27496f was the number stated which wasn't my number, I explained this to her and she then took me to her office to double check with workers, at the point the old employee that done the books had left! The new employee believe that this was a made up one, with my DOB being 27th of April 1996 she believe that's where the numbers came from and the f standing for female! At this point my ex employer was only worried if I paid taxed! I'm not sure what to do next about this? I feel like this will affect me when coming to a mortgage, because according to my number I have only started working for the age of 19, which is untrue, please help!

Flump 19/12/2015 at 11:12 pm

Can anyone tell me how to report a stolen national insurance card as I had my car broken in to and they took my wallet with it in I just want to know what websites I can go to tell them it's been stolen

Thanks

gircuion 02/12/2015 at 12:55 pm

I was to jobcenter for interview at 29 oct. 2015. Today is 2 dec. My question is: when arrive my national insurance number. I call to glasgow and hi tell me that nino is to post office.
Thank you.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 20/11/2015 at 10:59 am

If you have a concern about an organisation's information rights practices, you can report it to the ICO, I hope this helps.

An 19/11/2015 at 1:50 pm

I NEED ADVICE PLEASE - My employer is in Europe and we work only over the internet, using their website - both customers and employees access the same website for this purpose. They are storing all our personal data needed for employment purposes on our personal profile page of their website (intended for viewing by me only presumably, not other employees or customers when they log in). I can access this information on an unencrypted . THE DATA STORED INCLUDES: my full name, full address, passport number, NI number, full bank address sort code and full account number (they are NOT partial numbers eg 12****78). Absolutely every bit of confidential data about me (except my DOB) is stored here. When I queried this practise and their lack of security, they said that they do have an HTTPS// address but hardly anyone uses it and everyone uses the unencrypted address instead (HTTP//). They say that in the future they will move everyone to the HTTPS//. but surely this in itself will not solve the problem and they are in no hurry to do this. I am very concerned about this, in the light of the TalkTalk hacking breaches. I want to know how to get this employer to remove this data from their website, without offending them and losing my job - surely if I can see it when I log in to my account (using non-encrypted access) then it can be stolen and is vulnerable. I do not know enough about cyber security to know what to say to them to get them to take this more seriously. Please help. I NOTICE THAT YOU HAVE NOT ANSWERED VERY MANY OF THE QUESTIONS HERE BUT PLEASE CAN YOU DIRECT ME TO WHERE I CAN GET HELP WITH THIS. THANK YOU.

Sonny 14/11/2015 at 9:35 am

I have accidentally emailed to some random person my redundancy settlement agreement and P11D documents, which contain my name, address and National Insurance number.

What should I do?

Sarge 10/11/2015 at 6:50 pm

I am a retired police officer and I receive a monthly electronic pay slip which has my insurance number. I am also a TalkTalk customer and TalkTalk has been hacked. I have asked the County Finance Officer to remove NI numbers from payslips and P60s and I have been told that their removal from payslips will be considered but HMRC needs them on P60s for identification purposes. In the light of the TalkTalk hack, should National Insurance numbers be removed from all payslips and P60s?

this one 17/10/2015 at 5:05 am

I am working overseas and student finance sent a letter to my previous address. They included my national insurance number, address and full name on the letter. Additionally my customer number. I know this through checking the online system. I have since left that address and have no way to get the letter back. I'm worried that someone could use this information for fraud.

Mike 23/09/2015 at 10:55 pm

Hi, I'm Romanian, and 2 weeks ago I've have been to the nin interview, everything OK, but they made a copy of my ID, after this the lady which made my interview she went in a different desk whit my ID, then another 2 person came they had a look to my ID, the lady had given me the paper which I can prof I've made the interview but they keep my ID, for investigation, and they was saing they will send my id at home. do I need to be scared. is legal to keep my ID whiteout saing the reason. I call them. but I still don't have my id back?

mano 18/09/2015 at 3:02 pm

Hello.. What happened if I don't recive my nino... And one of my mates took it and he hide from me? I can make a complain to police? tks

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 17/09/2015 at 2:06 pm

Thanks for this information, you have done the right thing by reporting it. Hopefully, it will warn our other readers to beware and make sure they do some research to make sure the company they are applying to is actually is legitimate.

JaneL 16/09/2015 at 4:12 pm

I have had a similar experience to (Ls - 5-Sep-15 @ 3:26 PM) Victim of job scam. Data Entry Job advertised on jobs website. Had telephone interview with recruitment company couple of days later received job offer and contract to sign via email. Offer subject to Single Offence Check for fraud. Advised to use a specific online DBS checking company for express 5 day check and pay extra to get check completed in time for start of job. Disclosures company required NI number and passport scan as supporting document. Report ordered and received. Have had no face to face contact with recruitment company or hiring company only emails and phone interview. No firm details of start date or address. Address for job in very expensive part of London. Now this week see other people saying it is a scam. Have reported it to police and going to renew passport. But worried NI number will be used for ID fraud.

Din 16/09/2015 at 9:30 am

Im interested in working as a designer for a US internet company based in California paid in monthly royalties. They have asked for my NI number and say this is to ensure I am entitled to the 0% tax status as a UK citizen so I dont pay double tax. As they have my name, address and date of birth already and my Paypal email address for payment I am very wary of this request. Should I be giving this to them? I have no way of knowing what they do with it or how they secure it.

Ls 05/09/2015 at 3:26 pm

I applied for a job through a job website, the company emailed me and said I got the job, sent me my contract which I signed online, had correspondence with the manager at the company. I was advised that they received my contract and would require my NI number, dob, address - the usually stuff. They advised me that I would need a specific offence check (job was working with children) they sent me a link to the website, I paid the money into an account and they replied that the check would be done, just had to fill out the online form and send proof of I'd. - I sent a photo of my passport.
The manager of the company emailed me and said thank you the check all looks okay, my induction would be 5th Sept, and he would contact me next few days with the details.. times etc. Did not hear anything at all. Googled the company's phone number and realised it was a scam. Have been to police and reported it, also my bank. They have confirmed it is identity theft. The passport office have sent over my details to their fraq squad, and advised that i get a new passport.My bank have cancelled my card and reported it to fraud, and I got a crime ref from the police. I am worried about my ni number. What can they do with it? Can they use it? Do I need to phone tax people or hmrc?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 18/08/2015 at 9:58 am

I suggest you approach your local police station regarding this so it can be investigated fully. Please see gov.uk link 'penalties for employing illegal workers' here. I hope this helps.

Shar 17/08/2015 at 4:25 am

I left my employment in 2012 after my son got diagnosed with autism. I only worked for 4 weeks. Since then I have been alerted by carers allowance and income support that I'm apparently still employed with this cleaning company...the problem I had was that is was cash in hand but the boss said he paid into my account and he never gave me my P45 when I left. I had to track him down for it and only got it 4 months ago 2015. I know this man Highers illegal workers and is known to use other peoples national insurance numbers and I too have been a victim of fraud. Can I claim money back from which he stole from my 2 sons and what can I do? Thanks

Anton 04/08/2015 at 12:59 pm

Hello if I give my employer my national insurance number will they find out my age if I give it to them

Merlinsmum 03/08/2015 at 3:24 pm

Why would my housing association landlord want my NI number? I am not on any type of benefit and always thought I should keep it private.

Ash 13/07/2015 at 10:47 pm

Hi, I have sent a text message with my dob, NI number and address to a friend who works with EHIC cards but have sent it to a wrong number, the text didn't have my name, do I need to be worried about this information being used? Thanks.

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 20/04/2015 at 11:11 am

@Bubbles48 - it is rare a company will ask you for your NI number on an application, it is usually only when you have secured a job that this is needed. I personally wouldn't want to divulge it on an application. You can usually tell a person's age by the letter coding at the beginning of the number. I hope this helps.

Bubbles48 17/04/2015 at 12:43 pm

I have recently been applying for jobs online having been made redundant from my previous job. The application usually requests an NI number - can the people processing my application access my personal details ie age from this?

Ben Editor 03/03/2015 at 2:32 pm

@Lfg - you need to contact Action Fraud if you think your identity has been stolen. BB

Lfg 28/02/2015 at 11:26 pm

I too have been totally stupid and given my dob and ni details over phone, they already had my name and address I also gave past employer info. They said it was for a pension report that would be sent straight to me. I can't believe I have been so stupid, Im always so wary. I now having panic art stacks and can't sleep for worrying about it. Have I had my identity stolen and is there anything I can do?

AboutIdentityTheft Editor 02/03/2015 at 12:42 pm

@MAG - I have included an NI Direct article regarding what you can do if you think your identity may have been stolen, here. I hope this helps.

MAG 26/02/2015 at 11:04 pm

I have been stupid and gave my national insurance number over the phone and my date of birth can this be used by someone else as i tried to phone back and retrive but line is dead
how can i make sure no one uses this.

JJ Editor 07/01/2015 at 10:34 am

@Suze - I would contact them directly first via the company's official website telephone number, to see whether a letter was sent to you in order to clarify if it is a genuine request or not.

Suze 06/01/2015 at 7:03 pm

I have received a letter from ReAssure saying they believe I am a policy holder with them. They have asked for my National Insurance number to confirm my details. Am I safe to send this information?

DM 20/10/2014 at 1:57 pm

'recruitment agency' requested I register - I did BUT disclosed my NI number and DoB - called their office and keeping automated message - should I be concerned?

Hussy 16/09/2014 at 5:14 pm

My daughters NI no went missing and I think there are two ladies could be working its either the lady living in acton w3or chiswickw4 or the other one lives in slough can you please tell me what can I do about it THANK YOU

Jules 16/07/2014 at 5:26 pm

My neighbours from hell have got hold of my National Insurance number and I am worried they have been using it in my name. They have stated in a letter I received off them in May. This was given to the police, but of course nothing is being done. I have proof and also they have got some of my medical records. I feel they have been applying for things and using my insurance and my name and I am worried. Please tell what I can do about this or you can do about it. I feel they should be arrested and charged for this but they are not.

Gulam 21/01/2013 at 8:53 pm

Hi, I have got my NI card in 2010. Can I make correction of my name on the NI card ?ThanksRegardMohammad Gulam KibriaNI Number : SL 60 41 55 D

Bazza 08/10/2012 at 5:12 am

Hi thereI have been seeing a girl who is a cannabis addict and randomly she asked me for me national insurance number, I never gave it her, what could she have done with it if she had got it?

kyle 20/08/2012 at 8:35 pm

A freedom of information request was mad to my employer asking for information in relation to my work the person gathering this information sent instead of wat was requested all my personal details including my national insurance number. This information was sent to a member of the public in turn this person who received my personal details passed them on to at least two other people and also to local news papers this has caused me and my family a lot of stress and worried please advise me way can I do.

rolo 08/08/2012 at 3:18 pm

An ex employer has passed on my detailes to someone else and they have worked under my id and landed me with a large tax bill. I have tried every avenue for the last 18 months they have come back to me and said it is down to me to find out the name and address of the person that used it and need a letter from my former employer confiming this. I am not intitled to legal aid as I have paid my mortage up and would have to sell to take this to court.i am at my wits end any answers please!

holl 20/05/2012 at 12:10 pm

Is my national insurance number in the bottom right hand corner of my drivers license card? theres a number resembling a national insurance number on my license at the back of the card in the right hand corner?

joe 18/05/2012 at 1:54 pm

My friends national insurance number was used to create problems,making false allegations and reporting changes in circumstances which werent true,how would she go about changing her NI number or set up passwords to protect her identity.

jane 16/01/2012 at 11:24 am

I have been stupid and given out my national insurance number and date of birth on an application form over the internet I am unable to retrive the information again and feel that this was not a genuine application. How can I make sure that no one else uses my identity.

Ma 22/08/2011 at 7:11 pm

Hi there,one of the company administration staff members has collected the original of my National Insurance Number Card (along with my other personal documents) upon the start of my work for the company and didn't give it back to me. Later on when asked about the document, the mentioned administration staff member said that he had not collected the said document from me. It implies that the person doesn't want to give my NIN document back to me.Is it possible that the mentioned person (or anybody else) can use my NIN for some bad purposes. Is it dangerous and what can I do in order to be sure that my NIN is not used for bad purposes? Thanks,Ma

Sandy 07/08/2011 at 10:47 am

I have just received a form in the post from a colleagues company, wanting a character reference. Also enclosed in the letter were my colleagues name, address, & National Insurance Number. Surely this is a breach of the Data Protection Act?The letter was not registered post & could have gone astray. In any case, I did not need to know this information!Please advise.

AboutIdentityTheft 01/08/2011 at 1:55 pm

If you have lost your card and feel that your National Insurance number may be being used for purposes other than it was designed, you should contact HM Revenue & Customs immediately and report your suspicions.

AM 01/08/2011 at 8:30 am

My purse was stolen on Saturday and I'm unsure if my NI card was in there. Until I get home from holiday I can't check. Am I able to alert someone to the possibility that it may have been?
Thank you
A M Hope

Lin 20/06/2011 at 11:06 pm

If someone know my national insurance number, but don't know my date of birth, can she use my national insurance number to do something?

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