the staff of the Ridgewood blog
A Cambridge Road resident responded to the Police department on October 5, 2016 to report a Theft of Identity. The victim reported she received two Chase credit cards in the mail without her authorization. The victim contacted Chase Bank and was informed someone used her personal identity and applied for the credit cards. Chase Bank cancelled the credit cards and is investigating the incident.
On October 7, 2016 a Glenwood Road resident responded to the Police Department to report Identity Theft in the past. The victim reported discovering an unauthorized credit card purchase on his Chase credit card in the amount of $1527 from Bob’s Furniture. The victim reported he was satisfied that Chase reversed the unauthorized charge and he only requested documentation of the incident.
10 Ways To Protect Yourself From Identity Theft
Shielding your private information with no risk of a breakdown may be impossible these days. But there are some simple ways to protect you from becoming a victim of Identity Theft.
Simple but very important, tips to protect you and your name.
1. Destroy private records and statements. Tear up – or, if you prefer, shred – credit cards statements, solicitations, and other documents that contain private financial information.
2. Secure your mail. Empty you mailbox quickly, lock it or get a P.O. box so criminals don’t have a chance to snatch credit card pitches. Never mail outgoing bill payments and checks from home. They can be stolen from your mailbox and the payee’s name erased with solvents. Mail them from the post office or another secure location.
3. Safeguard your Social Security number. Never carry your card with you, or any other card that may have your number, like a health insurance card. Don’t put your number on your checks. It’s the primary target for identity thieves because it gives them access to your credit report and bank accounts.
4. Don’t leave a paper trail. Never leave ATM, credit card or gas station receipts behind.
5. Never let your credit card out of your sight. Worried about credit card skimming? Always keep an eye on your card or, when that’s not possible, pay with cash.
6. Know who you’re dealing with. Whenever anyone contacts you asking for private identity or financial information, make no response other than to find out who they are, what company they represent and the reason for the call. If you think the request is legitimate, contact the company yourself and confirm what you were told before revealing any of your personal data.
7. Take your name off marketers’ hit lists. In addition to the national Do-Not-Call registry (1-888-382-1222), you can also cut down on junk mail and opt out of credit card solicitations.
8. Be more defensive with personal information. Ask salespeople and other if information such as Social Security or driver’s license number is absolutely necessary. Ask anyone who does require your Social Security number about their privacy policy and that you do not want your information given to anyone else.
