The Fastest Growing Crime in the United States

What is Identity Theft?

Identity Theft is basically taking your personal information (such as your name, address, social security number, account numbers, or drivers license number), and using that information for an illegal purpose (to illegally obtain credit in your name, use your credit cards, or to remove money from your banking account).

 

Identity Theft is the fastest growing crime in the United States. It can also be very difficult to remove the effects of victimization. Taking proactive steps prior to becoming a victim will reduce your risk of loss from identity theft and help you detect the theft early to report the crime for a quicker recovery.

 

1. How Can I Protect Myself From Identity Theft?
   Keeping your personal information private is the first step. Here are a few quick guidelines to follow:

2. Safeguard Your Mail. Identity Thieves are known to remove checks, credit card applications and other documents from your mailbox. If you are away for an extended period of time, have the post office stop delivery until you return.

3. Do Not Disclose Identifying Information If Possible. Never give your bank account or identification numbers over e-mail or phone. Banks will not ask for the information by calling customers or e-mailing them. Do not use your identifying information unless absolutely necessary.

4. Shred Your Mail. Confetti-cut paper shredders are relatively cheap to purchase and prevent thieves from obtaining your "junk mail" credit card information, medical bills and bank and credit statements

5. Protect Your Passwords. Don't leave computer passwords or PIN numbers written down, and especially not taped to the back of a debit or ATM card. Computer passwords should be constructed so that no one can guess the password, and if possible use a combination of numbers and letters.

6. Educate Yourself On Prevention. There is a wealth of information available to consumers on identity theft, contact the Crime Prevention for resources or use the FTC website link for more information.

 

How Can I Tell If My Identity Has Been Stolen?

There are three common ways to determine if your identity has been compromised. First, if you are receiving bills or statements for credit that you have not applied for, your identity may have been stolen. Second, pay attention to all charges on your bank and credit accounts. Unauthorized charges may indicate that you have been victimized by an identity thief. Third, obtain a copy of your credit report. Consumers are entitled to a free copy of their credit report annually. This report may be obtained at www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling 1-800-322-8228.

 

What Can I Do If My Identity Has Been Stolen?

The first step is to report the crime to the police. In Carrollton, call the non-emergency dispatch line at 972-466-3333. The reporting process will be much easier if you have documentation of the theft prior to reporting the crime. You will be asked to complete an affidavit to complete the report.

The second step is repairing any damage to your accounts. Start by contacting the three credit reporting bureaus; Experian, Equifax and TransUnion, and request inform them that you are a victim of identity theft. Provide a police report number to place fraud alerts and holds on your files. Finally, contact each bank or credit institution where you have an account and inform their fraud division of the crime and follow their instructions for repairing the damage to your accounts.

 

Do I Need To Pay Extra For Identity Theft Protection or Insurance?

Ultimately, you will have to make the decision. But you can report the crime and repair any damage to your credit at no cost to you as a consumer.

 

Where Can I Learn More?

Contact The Crime Prevention Unit at 972-466-3330 or by E-mail Crime Prevention