Identity Theft
Identity theft costs millions of dollars daily and is at an alarming increase. Here are some basic steps that can help prevent you from becoming a victim or if you have already become a victim.
Report lost or stolen credit cards immediately.
If you applied for a credit card and didn’t receive it when expected.
Never leave transaction receipts at ATM machines, bank counters, or at gas pumps.
Don’t carry your birth certificate or social security card; leave them in a secure location.
Closely monitor the expiration dates on your credit cards and contact the issuer if you didn’t receive a replacement prior to the expiration date.
Be aware of mail or telephone solicitations that offer prizes or awards – especially if the caller asks for your personal information or financial account numbers.
Here are some of the contacts available to you should you become a victim of identity theft.
Equifax Credit Reporting – 1-800-525-6285 www.equifax.com
Experian Credit Reporting – 1-800-397-3742 www.experian.com
TransUnion Credit Reporting – 1-800-680-7289 www.transunion.com
Federal Trade Commission – 1-877-438-4338
Fowler Township Police Department is proud to be a part of the Passport Fraud Program developed by the State of Ohio. The police department has installed advanced computer equipment, which will be used when a victim files a complaint of identity theft. This new equipment will be used to prepare state issued documents that support the victim’s claim of identity theft. These documents can be used to aid the victim in re-establishing the victim’s credit.
Residents are urged to contact the Fowler Twp. Police at 330-637-7111 should they have any questions.
We are here to serve the needs of the community!
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