Community Alert

Frauds/Scams & Identity Theft


Identity theft is the fastest growing consumer crime in North America. The recent increase in this type of crime is largely due to the availability of card skimmming (reading) devices and increased criminal involvement in computer hacking.

Don't let yourself become a victim, you must protect yourself. Here are few tips and suggestions to help you.

never use a public computer for financial transactions
install virus protection software on your computer and update it regularly
visit web sites that only begin with http:/;
report a loss or theft of credit/bank cards to the Police immediately
conduct a yearly credit bureau check of your credit status
shred or destroy personal documents before putting in garbage or recycling
always protect or sheild your PIN number when using bank or credit cards
never give your PIN number to anyone
check your bank account & card status for any unauthorized transactions
carry with you only the documents you need
avoid carrying your birth certificate, passport or Social Insurance Number
If you, or someone you know feels they have been the victim of Identity theft, a fraud or scam call the Police immediately.

PC Downie #5535 33 Division, Toronto Police