Research conducted by Experian, the credit reference agency, found that more than half of those surveyed could be at risk of identity theft by using passwords made up of information freely available online. A 'top ten' of information used included the individual's date and town of birth and the name of a previous school. Of the 2000 surveyed, more than half used the same password for different online accounts and 57 per cent admitted to using information they had posted freely on social networks and dating sites. At a time when identity theft is on the increase, this is a reminder to all staff and learners at FE and HE institutions to be aware of posting personal information online and to make use of the privacy controls available. Where possible, passwords should be robust and changed regularly. For more information on this article, go to: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/internet/7946481/Britons-at-risk-of-identity-fraud-through-careless-use-of-passwords-on-internet.html