A third of PC owners 'risk identity theft'

One in three computers discarded this Christmas have not been wiped clear of personal information that could be used to steal the owners' identity, according to new research.

Although more Brits are now wising up to the perils of failing to shred their bank statements and personal letters, Sainsbury's Bank found that 32 per cent of computers thrown away over Christmas contained information that could be used for fraudulent purposes.

Identity theft constitutes criminals gathering personal information about an individual which can be used to gain access to the target's various bank accounts.

Last year, a study by Glamorgan University revealed that 118 out of 200 discarded hard drives were still working, ten per cent of which contained financial details.

Donald MacLeod, Sainsbury's Bank's credit card manager said: "Over the years, you can end up storing a great deal of personal information on your computer so it makes sense to wipe clean or destroy the drive before you throw it away.

"Identity theft is a very serious problem and it is important we all take preventative measures to avoid becoming a victim."

The average financial cost of the crime to victims interviewed by the researchers was £3,039, but six per cent of victims said that it had cost them over £10,000.