Increases in Identity Fraud Cases

Area law enforcement is seeing increases in identity fraud cases, especially as it relates to a scam involving individuals receiving an email from Bank of America regarding accounts being opened, or attempting to be opened in their name, using the victim’s social security numbers.  In some cases, banking account information has been stolen and used to make counterfeit checks.  Law enforcement recommends that individuals monitor their credit card and banking account information on a regular basis.  Also, you may want to consider freezing your credit with the three main credit bureaus, for a time, unless they have some large purchases coming up.  Never give out any personal identifying information over the phone or through text, email, or instant message.  Businesses and agencies that you do business with will already have that information on file.