Consumer Fraud Information

Identity Theft is a generic term that covers a number of possible loss situations including purse/wallet snatch, mail theft, insider sources, imposters, spy ware, phishing scams, account takeover [using account information to commit a fraud], full-blown identity theft [an imposter obtains personal information about the victim and “takes over” their identity in another location, normally another state], and data compromise.

Check fraud is another problem which utilizes internet auctions, sweepstakes or lottery scams, false charities or chat rooms to trick consumers into depositing counterfeit cashier’s checks and money orders with instructions to send funds back to someone, either the remitter or another person involved with the scam.  When the check is returned to the bank as counterfeit, the consumer is legally responsible for restitution.

Education is the best way to protect you from these types of thefts.  Arm yourself with as much information and knowledge about what avenues these thieves are taking to get your money or your identity.  Many government agencies websites provide information on various frauds and identity theft to educate consumers on how to protect themselves.   They also provide information and instructions on what to do if you’ve been victimized including reporting the incident to them.  This is helpful in compiling statistics and the sharing of information may lead to identifying the perpetrators of these crimes. 

Suggested websites are:

www.annualcreditreport.com            Obtain your free credit report           

www.lookstoogoodtobetrue.com      FBI & US Postal Inspection Service    

www.onguardonline.gov                   Federal Trade Commission, Homeland Security, Office of Justice Programs, US Postal Inspection, Dept of Commerce, Securities & Exchange Commission

www.fdic.gov/consumers                  Federal Deposit Insurance Corp (FDIC)          

www.ftc.gov/consumer                     Federal Trade Commission (FTC)