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City of Palos Heights
7607 W. College Drive
Palos Heights, IL 60463
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Identity Theft
Identity theft has become the fastest growing crime in the country. According to the Federal Trade Commission, last year alone identity theft and consumer fraud cost Americans nearly $550 million, a $12 million increase from 2003. On average, victims will spend an average of 600 hours and $1500 repairing their credit.
There are several ways consumers can protect their personal information, and therefore, better protect themselves against identity theft:
- Obtain a free credit report and look for and report any inconsistent information
- Properly dispose of bills, monthly statements, credit offers and convenience checks
- Never give out account numbers or social security numbers to strangers
- Never write your social security number on checks or use as a password
- Make sure your full credit card number or expiration date does not appear on receipts
- Do not respond to emails asking for personal information (Example: Bank info update)
Identity Theft Resource Center
Social Security Fact Sheet
Identity Theft Illinois
Investigations
Police Home Page
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