ID Theft - Reduce the Risk - A Message from the Bend Police Department

ID Theft is rampant. Fueled by drugs, it continues to grow with no end in sight. Not much can be done to guarantee immunity from ID theft; however, the following tips may help reduce the odds of becoming a victim.

Never provide personal information over the phone. It's common for thieves to pose as legitimate companies, law enforcement or financial representatives. They will request account numbers, social security numbers, or other financial information from you. They may say you won the lottery or a warrant has been issued but can be cleared if you give your social security or bank number. Don't fall for these lines. Ask the caller for a call back number and request that they send you something in writing before you disclose personal information.

Cross-shred papers that contain personal information. Dumpster diving is an excellent way to collect account numbers and other personal information.

Always check bank and credit statements carefully. Verify your credit rating with credit bureaus.

Don't leave personal information out in the open. Workers, visitors, or others can steal the information and use it before you know it. Many ID thieves can be family members or friends.

Be cautious about Internet, E-mail and other electronic scams. Some websites are quite sophisticated in mimicking legitimate sites. When in doubt, call the site. Do not use links, type in the web address yourself. "You have won a free DVD..." Maybe yes, maybe no, but if you are asked for personal information, don't give it. If you use a cable modem, disconnect it or get an on/off switch for the cable. You may be logged off but your computer is still on the net.

Be sure to monitor your child's chat rooms. Predators are very good at prying information out of them. If your child has a blog, is the information something you want millions of eyes looking at?

Monitor your mail. Are you receiving it on time and getting what you expect?

If your purse or wallet is lost or stolen, notify credit card companies immediately. Notify financial accounts and credit bureaus and check with the Social Security office. Carry the minimal amount of credit cards, debit cards or checks. Do you really need five credit cards when you go shopping? Minimizing what you carry helps dampen the effect when a purse or wallet is stolen.