Identity Theft, Credit Card Fraud Reported to Batavia Police

Batavia police reported three cases of indentity theft, fraud and credit-card fraud during the week of March 7 through March 14:

Identity Theft—Someone used the Social Security number of a person who lives in the 700 block of Ozier Drive, Batavia police reports said. Police gave the victim an identity theft packet. For more information on identity theft, please contact the Batavia Police Department non-emergency phone number at 630-454-2500.

Credit Card Fraud—Someone reported to Batavia police on March 11 that $2,200 in debit card charges were made to the victim’s account. The report address is the 800 block of E. Wilson St.

Fraud—A fraud was reported March 8 at Menards, 300 N. Randall Road. No other information is available.

Tips for Preventing Identity Loss

SOURCE: USA.gov

Identity thieves steal your personal information to commit fraud. They can damage your credit status and cost you time and money restoring your good name. To reduce your risk of becoming a victim, follow the tips below:

• Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet or write it on your checks. Only give out your SSN when absolutely necessary.
• Protect your PIN. Never write a PIN on a credit/debit card or on a slip of paper kept in your wallet.
• Watch out for "shoulder surfers". Use your free hand to shield the keypad when using pay phones and ATMs.
• Collect mail promptly. Ask the post office to put your mail on hold when you are away from home for more than a day or two.
• Pay attention to your billing cycles. If bills or financial statements are late, contact the sender.
• Keep your receipts. Ask for carbons and incorrect charge slips as well. Promptly compare receipts with account statements. Watch for unauthorized transactions.
• Tear up or shred unwanted receipts, credit offers, account statements, expired cards, etc., to prevent dumpster divers getting your personal information.
• Store personal information in a safe place at home and at work. Don't leave it lying around.
• Don't respond to unsolicited requests for personal information in the mail, over the phone or online.
• Install firewalls and virus-detection software on your home computer.
• Check your credit report once a year. Check it more frequently if you suspect someone has gotten access to your account information.

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