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Identity Theft

Identity Theft Prevention & Reporting

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information – such as your name, Social Security number, date of birth, bank account number, or credit card number – without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes.

Identity theft is a serious offense. Victims often spend months or even years repairing damaged credit, disputing fraudulent charges, and correcting records. In some cases, identity theft can impact employment opportunities, housing applications, loans, and even result in wrongful arrest due to fraudulent activity committed in the victim’s name.

The Tyngsborough Police Department encourages residents to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect their personal information.

How Criminals Steal Personal Information

Identity thieves use a variety of methods, including:

  • Stealing a purse or wallet
  • Taking mail, including bank statements or pre-approved credit offers
  • “Dumpster diving” for discarded financial documents
  • Phishing emails, text messages, or phone scams requesting personal information
  • Data breaches involving businesses or online accounts
  • Skimming devices placed on ATMs or gas pumps
  • Shoulder surfing (watching you enter your PIN or passwords)
  • Malware or hacking of unsecured computers or Wi-Fi networks

How to Reduce Your Risk

You can significantly lower your risk by taking these precautions:

  • Do not carry your Social Security card in your wallet
  • Only provide your Social Security number when absolutely necessary
  • Shred financial documents before disposal
  • Collect mail promptly and consider secure mail options
  • Use strong, unique passwords for each online account
  • Enable multi-factor authentication whenever available
  • Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown senders
  • Monitor your bank and credit card accounts regularly
  • Obtain your free annual credit report at:
  • www.AnnualCreditReport.com
  • Opt out of pre-approved credit offers by calling (888) 567-8688

If You Are a Victim of Identity Theft

  • Report the Crime
    Contact the Tyngsborough Police Department at (978) 649-7504 to report fraudulent activity. An officer will document the incident in an official report and may assign a detective to your case.

    Be prepared to provide:
    – Dates and locations of fraudulent activity
    – Account numbers involved
    – Estimated dollar amounts
    – How you believe your information was compromised

    Before concluding your report, obtain:
    – The officer or detective’s name
    – Your police report number
    – You will likely need this information when disputing fraudulent charges.

  • Place a Fraud Alert on Your Credit Report
    Contact one of the three major credit reporting agencies. The agency you call is required to notify the other two.
    – Equifax: (888) 766-0008
    – Experian: (888) 397-3742
    – TransUnion: (800) 680-7289
    A fraud alert requires creditors to verify your identity before issuing new credit.

  • Review and Close Fraudulent Accounts
    If new accounts were opened in your name:
    – Contact each creditor immediately
    – Request the account be closed due to fraud
    – Complete any required fraud affidavits
    If an existing account was compromised:
    – Notify the creditor
    – Dispute unauthorized charges
    – Request a new account number
  • File a Federal Identity Theft Report
    Report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC):
    – Phone: (877) 438-4338 (877-IDTHEFT)
    – Online: https://www.identitytheft.gov
    The FTC website provides recovery plans and generates documentation that can assist in resolving disputes.

  • Secure Your Online Accounts
    – Change all passwords immediately
    – Use new, unique passwords
    – Do not reuse passwords across multiple accounts
    – Avoid storing passwords in unsecured locations

  • Replace Identification Documents (If Necessary)
    If your driver’s license, Social Security card, or other identification was stolen:
    – Contact the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV)
    – Notify your financial institutions
    – Monitor accounts closely for continued misuse

  • Keep Detailed Records
    Maintain a log of:
    – Names of individuals you speak with
    – Dates and times of conversations
    – Account numbers
    – Copies of letters and emails
    – Police report number
    Organized documentation will greatly assist in resolving disputes and supporting investigations.

Stay Calm and Act Quickly

Identity theft can feel overwhelming, but taking prompt, organized action greatly improves recovery outcomes. The Tyngsborough Police Department is committed to assisting residents who become victims of financial crimes.

If you have questions or need to report identity theft, please contact us at:
Tyngsborough Police Department – (978) 649-7504