Identity theft has become a major problem in the United States. Officials estimate that there are half a million victims of identity theft per year in the United States. Identity theft is the wrongful use of another's personal information, such as credit card numbers, social security number, and driver's license number, to commit fraud or another form of deception. Although there may be many motives, monetary gain is the most common. Identity crimes can begin with other seemingly unrelated crimes, such as purse theft, computer intrusions, mail thefts, or other forms of document theft. Many times the victim discovers the fraud by way of a credit card statement listing unauthorized purchases. The internet is the primary tool in identity theft, however elderly victims are often targeted through telephone scams that acquire personal information. Residents are strongly cautioned against giving out personal information over the phone.

What should you do if you find that you have been a victim of identity theft? The first step is to contact the Milford Police Department for a report. Milford officers will take a report even if the unauthorized purchase took place outside the City of Milford or the State of Ohio. Many credit bureaus require a police report to begin repairing your credit. The next step is to obtain credit reports from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union) and forward a copy to the police investigator assigned to your case. The third step is to notify the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-ID-THEFT or www.consumer.gov/idtheft. Finally, you should contact your bank, utility providers (Cinergy, Cincinnati Bell, Warner Cable, etc.) and the Social Security Administration (1-800-269-0271) to advise them that your identity has been fraudulently used. If you have any questions about identity theft, please contact the Milford Police Department at 248-5084.