Hi everyone and welcome to this week's Sheriff's Corner. I have several items to talk to you about this week. First I'd like to finish up the identity theft report and then quickly cover the two grand juries that took place on Monday.
First to finish up Identity Theft. I know we have talked about this before. However, the important thing is to really be aware and change the way we do business. 16% of all fraud cases occur during Internet auctions. 8% happens during "shop at home" catalog sales. 6 % of all fraud cases involve foreign money offers and 6% happens during Internet services and computer complaints. Interestingly, 29% of fraud victims are 30-39 years of age, 25% are 40-49 and 20% are 50-59 years of age.
We told you how to protect yourself last week. This week will be used to give you the most recent suggestions on what to do if you are victimized. First, close bank and credit card accounts immediately. When you open new accounts, get passwords. Avoid using your mother's maiden name, your birth date or your phone number for your password. These are the first names and numbers looked for by thieves. Next, file a report with law enforcement and get a copy of your report. You sometimes need this copy to prove to creditors, credit bureaus and others that you're the victim of identity theft. Also, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov. . Law enforcement can use the FTC's database of complaints when investigating identity theft. Lastly, contact one of the three credit bureaus; only one is necessary, because they communicate between themselves. After initiating this alert, you are entitled to free copies of your report. You need to check these reports to check on illegal activity. TransUnion (800-680-7289), Experian (888-397-3742) and Equifax (800-525-6285).
Next, the Grand Jury heard two cases on Monday. The first was the case where Mr. Arthur was shot by our department. The Grand Jury found that our officers acted appropriately. The second was the murder of Mark Lunt. The Grand Jury brought back a true bill and Mr. Law will be indicted.
Have a great week. | 