The Delano Police Department Fraud and Identity Theft Unit shall investigate criminal fraud and identity theft, while providing victims with the resources available to prevent further victimization.
Identity theft is on the rise, and each of us must take the appropriate steps to keep our personal and banking information confidential. When we let our guard down, we increase our chances of falling victim to an identity theft crime.
Responding to emails where personal or banking information are asked for and the sender is not a trusted site. Always verify who you are sending personal and banking information before sending such information.
Responding to mailers that you receive through the mail is another way in which unsuspecting people are victimized. If the offer sounds too good to be true, it most probably is.
Using your ATM or bank credit card is another important way that you can fall victim to theft crimes. Be aware that carbon copies that are thrown in the trash after you make a transaction can result in your account being charged for purchases you did not make. Make it a point to ask for all carbon copies that are to be discarded by the merchant you do business with at the time you make your purchase.
Be careful when entering Personal Identification Numbers (PIN) as people may be watching you to obtain your PIN.
Be especially alert for lottery scams. If you are told you won a prize but must pay a fee, it is probably a scam. You should report these situations to your local police department.
If you believe you have fallen victim to a fraud, e-mail scam, identity theft, or other similar crime, call the police department immediately and report the incident. The Delano Police Department provides several brochures regarding identity theft that you may obtain here or at the lobby of the police department.