Identity theft is both infuriating and inconvenient. If it happens, you need to act quickly to reduce the problems identity theft causes. In addition, there are lots of things you can do yourself to prevent it from happening.
Identity theft - what you need to know
If you have been exposed to identity theft
1. Block your BankID
Contact your bank immediately if you think you have been tricked into revealing your bank details.
2. Put a block on your lost ID card
If you have lost your driving licence, passport or national ID card, you will need to block it as soon as possible.
Contact the Transport Agency to block your driving licence.
Contact the Police to block your passport or national ID card.
Tax Agency ID cards are blocked by the National Tax Agency.
SIS ID cards are blocked by the issuing agency (bank or organisation).
3. Block payment and credit cards
Always block debit or credit cards if you suspect someone else is using them to carry out transactions in your name.
4. Notify the Police
Always file a police report if you suspect someone has called you and is trying to deceive you.
Call: 114 14 or go to a police station.
If you are abroad, the number is: +46 77 114 14 00.
Use BankID securely
Never use your BankID at the request of any person who has called you or contacted you in any other way, such as via SMS or social media.
Always read the text that is displayed in the BankID app and check where you sign in or what you are signing. If you are unsure, select cancel.
Enable notifications from BankID to check whether a BankID is activated for your personal identity number. You can do this under Settings on your phone.
Read your BankID history in the BankID app. There you can see how and against which companies and services you have used your BankID.
We recommend that you share location information in the BankID app. The aim is to increase your security and help prevent fraud. The location information is only enabled when using the BankID app.
If you are concerned about using your BankID in public and someone looking over your shoulder and seeing your BankID security code, we recommend that you enable FaceID or fingerprint recognition in the BankID app settings.
How to prevent identity theft
There are several things you can do to reduce the impact of identity theft and to ensure that you detect theft quickly. The various agencies have lots of smart features to help you discover if your identity has been stolen or to prevent someone else trying to change your information.
Block unauthorised change of address at the National Tax Agency
You can prevent unauthorised changes to your address by using the e-service Block Unauthorised Change of Address. When the block is activated, only changes of address made by electronic ID will be accepted by the National Tax Agency's e-services Notification of Change of Address or Specific Postal Address. This reduces the risk of someone using your personal data for fraud and identity theft. Blocking unauthorised changes of address can only be done through this e-service.
Block your postal address at Swedish Mail Forwarding (Adressändring)
Make sure that no one redirects your mail to Swedish Mail Forwarding. You can also prevent a potential change of address by blocking your postal address with Address Lock.
Read more about the Address lock (in Swedish only)
Contact Swedish Mail Forwarding
Put a lock on your mailbox
Get a mailbox that can be locked and ask someone you trust to empty your mailbox if you are away.
Keep track of your accounts
Check your account statement regularly. If you see transactions you do not recognise, contact your bank.
Be careful when sharing your details
Do not disclose your personal identity number or reveal you card details or account number without good reason.
