Identity Theft

Has someone stolen your identity to obtain new credit or to otherwise receive a monetary gain from your identity? Identity theft is a growing problem and the Harrison County Sheriff's Department will assist you in completing an incident report to document the crime.

Identity theft crosses all social, economic, racial and gender barriers. The suspect could be a relative, dishonest employee, someone you know or someone you have never met. They could live next door, across the country, around the world or surf the Internet leaving a confusing paper trail behind them. The suspects will empty savings, checking, investment and credit card accounts.

Identity Theft Prevention Tips:

• Provide your Social Security Number and birth date only when absolutely necessary. Ask, “Why do you want it and what are you going to do with it”?
• Do not have your Social Security Number printed on checks or your BMV documents including driver’s license or I.D. card.
• Reduce the number of credit cards you use and cancel all unused accounts and destroy the old cards. Keep a list/photocopy of credit card information, including telephone numbers of customer service departments in a secure location.
• Reduce unwanted junk mail; contact the Direct Marketing Association and specify your mail preferences.