We may find ourselves deprived of an identity document as a result of a crime. We may think that we know perfectly well what to do if we fall victim to a pickpocket. However, the question arises: what should we do if we lose a document or find one? Simply notifying the municipal office, or reporting the matter to a Police unit when a crime has been committed to our detriment, is not enough.
In both situations, the documents should be blocked at a bank without delay in order to avoid a range of unpleasant consequences. Let us be aware that an identity card, passport, payment card, driving licence or permanent residence card may be used for criminal purposes.
Only quick action can protect our identity and financial resources from loss. Within just a few minutes, information about the block is promptly forwarded to all banks and made available to companies that identify customers on the basis of identity documents, such as mobile telecommunications operators.
Everyone should have their documents blocked—not only bank customers. This is the most important step to take immediately when we lose, for example, an identity card, passport or driving licence.
Thanks to the information campaign for the “Dokumenty zastrzeżone” system, organised by the Polish Bank Association and held under the honorary patronage of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration, with the cooperation of the Police Headquarters, the number of blocked identity documents is steadily increasing, and consequently many attempts to obtain loans fraudulently are being prevented. Let us remember that our actions determine our collective security.
More information about the project Dokumenty zastrzeżone
