Credit Card Identity Theft Rise

[Dragos Sfinteanu]

Published by The San Jose Mercury News - February 19, 2004

Police: Restaurant workers aided credit card fraud ring
By Brandon Bailey

It's a credit card holder's nightmare: Police say they have uncovered two San Jose fraud rings that recruited workers at local restaurants and paid them to slide customers' cards through a small device that secretely recorded account numbers and other information.

Police say the ringleaders used the account numbers to manufacture counterfeit cards, and then charged expensive merchandise at stores up and down the West Coast- as much as $400,000 worth of swag that the schemers either sold for cash on the Internet or kept for themselves.

"I think this is a lot more widespread a problem than we realize," said San Jose police detective Ken Munson, whose investigation led to criminal charges against 14 people in recent months. He said hundreds of account numbers were stolen. Although they suffered inconvenience and perhaps a sense of shattered security, the cardholders' financial losses were absorbed by credit card companies.

The scheme's ringleaders recruited college students and other twentysomethings who worked as waiters and waitresses, then paid them @10 apiece for every credit card they slid through a black box small enough to hide under their aprons, Munson said.

The restaurant workers were employed at seven restaurants in Belmont, Cupertino, Milpitas and San Jose. Police refuseed to name the eateries, saying they wanted to protect them from negative publicity.

Authorities , in fact, kept their whole investigation under wraps for months, while they built a case against several of suspects. They announced the results on Wednesday after concluding they had identified the main players, including David Patrick Plunkett, 24, a former San Jose State student who allegedly recruited former classmates for the scheme and sold the bogus cards to members of a second group that carried out a similar 0000.

When detectives searched a San Jose apartment Plunkett shared with two friends in November, they found scores of counterfeit credit cards, several magnetic card-reading devices and other electronic gadgets, 80 pairs of expensive athletic shoes and almost 30 cellular phones. Plunkett is at the Santa Clara County Jail awaiting trial on multiple charges of grand theft and conspiracy to commit identity theft.

The case began to unfold last year when corporate fraud investigators with Citibank told police they had detected a complex pattern of bogus transactions. Munson said it eventually became clear that other banks had also been defrauded.

Although some customers may have noticed that their monthly statements listed purchases they never made, Munson said the banks also use sophisticated computer programs to screen for large purchases that don't fit into individual customers' spending patterns. The banks then contacted the customers to see if the purchases were legitimate.

Corporate investigators then compared the accounts to see if they had any charges in common, Munson said. As it turned out, several customers had eaten at the same restaurant.

Munson said he contacted the restaurants and used their records to determine which waiters or waitresses had served those customers. He said that led him to several suspects in the case.
-------------------

Contact Brandon Bailey at bbailey@mercurynews.com or (408) 920-5022

[Gayle Castaneda]

That's really sad, but not surprising.

[Melba Martell]

You never know what's going on anyway when they disappear with your credit card for a few minutes. That's one reason why I am a creature of habit. I try to frequent the same reputable establishments no matter where I am. If traveling...I go on recommendations or patronize chain locations to try to minimize my risks.

I am very interested in investigating credit card fraud cases. I want to learn all about the "How To's" and stop the thieves dead in their tracks! It is important to stop this kind of crime and make it known to the public that these thieves are not getting away with it. Thanks for your posting.

Melba

[Andrew McDowell--]

it is really sad the steps people have taken to make an eay dollar. That is why this is one of the fields that I would love to get into, so I can help those who have been stripped of their finanical lives. I want to really make a positive difference in the lives of others.

[Julie Mercer -]

I want to really make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Andrew,
Helping others is what it is all about! Defending/protecting individuals that are unable to do this for themselves. What an awesome opportunity in this profession to provide that type of service, just AWESOME! :)

Julie Mercer

[Julie Mercer -]

Dragos,
Execellent job in writing this article! Thank you for bringing it to us. It certainly makes me think about common activities that I do on a routine basis without concern. I will certainly be more aware!

Julie Mercer

[Kimberly Cox]

Makes one wonder why we don't have fingerprint activated "authenticators"!

[Ariel Deno -]

I wanted to share this case everyone. Its a case that I was invovled as a in-house investigator. Enjoy! :)


Investigators charge 8 in ID theft operations
Authorities say at least 22 people have been victims of the Tampa fraud ring, and they expect to find more.
By SHANNON COLAVECCHIO-VAN SICKLER, Times Staff Writer
Published May 15, 2004

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


TAMPA - State and local investigators say eight Tampa residents stole bank account numbers from at least 22 victims over the past two years, and used the information to acquire more than $160,000.

Armed with the stolen identities, the ring bought - and then returned for cash - $160,000 in merchandise from #### and ##### stores in several counties, including Hillsborough and Pinellas.

Officials with the state Attorney General's Office and the Hillsborough and Pinellas sheriff's offices announced the fraud and identity theft charges Friday afternoon.

Investigators expect to discover more victims of identity theft.

"Any time you're dealing with an economic crime, there's a long paper trail and it takes us time to follow it all," said Sgt. John Campo, a detective for the Hillsborough Sheriff's Office.

Dwayne Mathis King, 23; Toqulada Christopher, 28; and Larry Donell Williams, 32, are charged with conspiracy to commit organized fraud and identity theft, a first-degree felony that carries a maximum prison term of 30 years and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years.

The organized fraud charge carries a maximum 15-year prison term.

Charged with conspiracy to commit organized fraud are Antonio Ledon Russ, 28; Patricia Williams, 52; Tequitha Foster, 25; Kizzy Peoples; 25; and Ashley Nicole Mobley, 20.

According to an affidavit, King, Christopher and Williams got the victims' bank information and used it to create fake blank checks. They allegedly used the checks to buy merchandise - usually a few hundred dollars' worth at a time - from ##### and ##### stores in Orlando, Sarasota, Brandon, Fort Myers, Tampa, St. Petersburg, Largo, Clearwater and Ocala.

Then King, Christopher, Williams or the other five accused would return the items for cash, according to the affidavit. Detectives and store security personnel tracked down the suspects through video surveillance, fingerprints and driver's license information that the suspects left on return slips.

The Hillsborough Sheriff's Office got wind of the scheme when a county resident called deputies in January to say someone had taken her bank account number and used it to pay for merchandise at ##### with two fake checks.

The checks bore her account number, but not her name.

[Flora Porter]

Makes one wonder why we don't have fingerprint activated "authenticators"!

Hi Kimberly,

That is a good point you made. ;) Im surprise they dont have or are in the process of making fingerprint/or palmprints authenticators. :D

Flora

[Prem Prasad]

Credit Cards IdentityTheft Rise
I agree about this which is a good point. If someone's bank account number was used to pay for the merchandise, Why the figureprints/or palmprints authenticators was not process.

[Sidney J Jolly -]

Kimberly:

Why not fingerprint activated (or other biometric) verifiers? Because neither the public nor the credit card companies are demanding them. The card companies could come up with something of the kind, and offer it to their members in return for reduced fees, if they wanted to spend the money to install the necessary hardware and software. Obviously, fraud losses are not pinching company profits that seriously.

Sidney J. Jolly

[Julie Mercer -]

Why not fingerprint activated (or other biometric) verifiers?

Sidney,
That is an excellent idea! You should pitch that to one of the credit card companies. Or submit an article in the editorial section of the newspaper. :)

Julie Mercer

[Michael Lowe]

You really have to be carefull now days about your identity. I don't even give out my social security number to anyone. In fact it is against federal law to use it as a form of id. If you don't believe call a social security office and ask them. The only thing it is to be used for is social security benefits only and or for taxes nothing else. One thing i will not do and that is give my credit card number on a website thats how alot of this type of thing happens. You just have to really watch what you are doing now days.

[Barbara Compton]

What bothers me is when you write a check they ask for ID. But when you have a credit card they don't ask at all! To me it doesn't make sense. :confused:

Just my thoughts
Barbara Compton

[Marietta Grant]

i just want to say that know one has the right to really take from others that is why there are such things that are called laws. to prosecute dis honest persons i am glad i have chosen this career to help others

[Julie Mercer -]

Barbara,
On the back of ALL my credit cards & debt card in the signature area I write, SEE ID. It truly amazes me that the clerks will turn it over and look at the signature space and not ask to see my ID. The other day I went to the store and used my debt card to buy cat food. The guy turned my debt card over, looked at me and said, "you don't mind if I don't ask for your ID you do?" Oh my gosh!!!!!! :eek:

If I am in a hurry and a clerk does ask for my ID, I take the time to show her! In fact, even though I am in a hurry I show my ID. I pull out my credit or debt card along with my license.

Julie Mercer

[Bruce Wagner]

The biggest problem with credit card theft is the credit card companies themselves. I am aquainted with a case where my friend's new card, sent in the mail was stolen by his tenant. He fully cooperated with local authorities and postal inspectors, but when the credit card company relieved him of any responsibility for charges made on the card, they became the complaintant in the case and refused to pursue the matter any further. Thieves know this is the case and that their chances of being prosecuted are slim. Until credit card companies aggressively pursue credit card theft, this nonsense will continue.

Sincerely,
Bruce Wagner, LPI

[Julie Mercer -]

The biggest problem with credit card theft is the credit card companies themselves. Thieves know this is the case and that their chances of being prosecuted are slim. Until credit card companies aggressively pursue credit card theft, this nonsense will continue.

Bruce,
I find that very distressing! :(

Julie Mercer

[Yakov Mirochnik]

Thank you for the information about credit card theft. I have interest investigate credit card fraud and learn more about it. I willing to do that kind of assignment. Exellent information!

Have a great day everyone.

[Angela Beck]

Yes thank you so very much on the very inportant information on identity theft. I just don't know what this world is coming to. I remember when I was younger you could ride your bikes at night with no problems, or you could go to the park and play without your parents. It is sad what this world has turned into.
Angela Beck

[Julie Mercer -]

It is sad what this world has turned into.
Angela Beck

Angela,
I agree! But, I believe each one of us can do something about that fear. This profession offers us an opportunity to help change a piece of the world we touch. :)
Julie Mercer

[Angela Beck]

Thanks Julie,
I think that I would like to look more towards child abuse and maybe also Adult care.
Angela Beck

[Julie Mercer -]

Angela,
I admire you for your ability & strength to want to work with abused children. I would really struggle with that area. I couldn't separate my job from personal down time. I would take everything home with me. It takes special people!
Julie Mercer

[Angela Beck]

Julie,
You don't know how much that means to hear stuff like that. The thing that I try to remember is that they are our future, they are the ones that are going to be running this country, we need to protect them. I would love to take all of them home too but I have dealt with the handicapped and such. Thankyou for your kind words.
Angela Beck

[Rick Patterson -]

You never know what's going on anyway when they disappear with your credit card for a few minutes. That's one reason why I am a creature of habit. I try to frequent the same reputable establishments no matter where I am. If traveling...I go on recommendations or patronize chain locations to try to minimize my risks.

I am very interested in investigating credit card fraud cases. I want to learn all about the "How To's" and stop the thieves dead in their tracks! It is important to stop this kind of crime and make it known to the public that these thieves are not getting away with it. Thanks for your posting.

Melba

Melba,
I, too, am interested in pusuing credit card fraud cases and I, too, am from Texas. I am very new at all this, having just paid my membership dues last week. But I intend to learn at a record pace. I have at least one online newspaper bookmarked in my IE Favorites folder for every state in the country and am constantly scanning these newspapers for information on this type of crime.
Perhaps we could share information? At any rate, it's good to hear that there are others out there who have a similar interest.
Thanks for your post.

[Petra Post]

Julie,
I like your idea of the signature space... I have to remember that, lol... That proves you show initiative. That clerk should have went in our dumb people (crooks) thread. But yet, they are suppose to card you when you buy alcohol and cigarettes. Now, I like to think, I look younger than I am but come on.... Usually it is visible if somebody is over 40... just my 2 cents...

[Julie Mercer -]

Now, I like to think, I look younger than I am but come on....
Petra,
Boy, I can relate! :eek:
Julie Mercer

[Bridgett Brown]

I am also interested in investigating credit card fraud. In the past, someone somehow got a hold of my credit card information and made unauthorized charges.
I had to notify the credit card company and dispute the charges. Of course the charges were removed from my account; however, I don't know if they ever caught the person that did this criminal act.

[Julie Mercer -]

I don't know if they ever caught the person that did this criminal act.
Bridgett,
Wouldn't it be great if we were informed if the person was caught and prosecuted? It would make us feel better and it might be a great deterrent. But, then again those type of people are convinced that they will never get caught :eek:
In your case, it is good that you didn't have to pay back what they stole from you.
Julie Mercer

[Flora Porter]

Hi Barbara,

It bothers me also when you write a check ID is required. Where as getting gas
with a credit card do not necessarily require any ID.
Something to think about.

Flora

[Michael Harris]

Dragos, et al,

Thanks for the article. It is a brazen crime and almost sophisticated. I have only one problem. The police may be scaring the public more than necessary.


"I think this is a lot more widespread a problem than we realize,"..

If you will look at the work of the intelligence community in the movie "The Long Kiss Goodnight", you will see have the "good guys" were willing to commit an act of unspeakable horror to get more money out ot Congress.

Too often, polilce or prosecutors will see an isolated crime and blow it up into the next major crime wave. This is often done to get more money for their departments or, in the case of prosecutors, to advance themselves politically. We have seen several examples of this reported here in the IPIU forums [which is why I will not mention the police/prosecutor 00000 by name].

I am not belittling the work of the police in this issue, but while the crime is scary to all of us, it may not be that widespread. You have to understand that conspiracies are hard to hide if there is more than one person involved.

[Sidney J Jolly -]

Michael:

If you talk to most anyone who's worked for any government bureau for any length of time, you'll know that 00000000 Congress for more money is part of the "game." I.e., the BP, INS or FAA Security hiring 400 trainees, then quickly firiing 300 of them. "We need more money to find qualified employees!". This is not to say that identity thieft fraud is not a problem, it is.

Sidney J. Jolly

[Angela Beck]

I am glad to know that there is quiet a few of you who want to do credit card fraud and identity theft. It makes you feel better knowing that there is people triing to get it under control. I read different stories and it just amazes me that these people can do this to other people,especially older people. :mad:
Angela Beck

[Loretta L Huscher]

Excellent information, thanks for sharing. There is a huge connection between identity theft and drug use. Everyone should be reminded to guard their information, all the time....use crosscut shredders, don't give out personal information unless you know who and how it will be used. Retailers are getting better in some areas, and so lax in others, it's frightening, and no surprise when their own employees are involved.
LH

[Julie Mercer -]

It bothers me also when you write a check ID is required. Where as getting gas
with a credit card do not necessarily require any ID.
Something to think about.
Excellent point! They should require a password like they do on a debt card.
Julie Mercer

[Michael Harris]

Sidney,

I worked for a consulting firm supporting a major US Navy program (we spent $2B a year). We did some very unorthodox (unethical) things to extract money form Congress.

We did not hurt anyone physically to do so.

[Angela Beck]

You are right Julie, I think that would be a good idea to have pass codes for credit cards.
that would save alot of trouble for the cashiers like me. We always have to watch out for
peoples actions and stuff like that. You can usually find the ones that have done something wrong.
Angela Beck

[Julie Mercer -]

You are right Julie, I think that would be a good idea to have pass codes for credit cards.
that would save alot of trouble for the cashiers like me. We always have to watch out for
peoples actions and stuff like that. You can usually find the ones that have done something wrong.
Angela Beck
Angela,
I am curious, what are some of the different demeanors of a person trying to use a stolen card? The nerve of a theft still surprises me! :mad:
Julie Mercer

[Angela Beck]

Julie,
We were taught by our security people ( dept. 10) ways to watch. These are as of follows:
1) Watch their eyes, if they are always looking around.
2) They would do alot of fidgeting, one side to the other, ect.
3) They are always in a hurry to get through the lane.
4) Finger tapping.
These are some of the things we look for in people, with as many as we get in a day it is easy to notice.
Angela Beck

[Julie Mercer -]

Angela,
Thanks for the information, I find it very interesting. Now, when I go shopping I will be looking at all the people in line and their behavior.
Julie Mercer

[Angela Beck]

Julie,
I just don't look at work. I am always watching people. I will go sit in a park and watch people or go to Grand Rapids and do the same. Very interesting.
Angela Beck

[Julie Mercer -]

Angela,
I am from MI and my brother went to college in Grand Rapids. Wow, what a small world.
I think we need to be good observers to be in this profession.
Have a great day!
Julie Mercer

[Carolyn Peddicord -]

This thread was very interesting and of course I learned a lot but I don't think many people understand what a problem it is until they themselves are victims. I think because of this I may be interested in pursuing credit card fraud. I think it is bad enough how bad credit cards can rip you off not to mention someone stealing your identy and racking up charges.

[Julie Mercer -]

but I don't think many people understand what a problem it is until they themselves are victims.
Carolyn,
I think you are exactly right. I believe that is the situation with a great deal of things. Until it touches our lives we don't really grasp the gravity. My brother-in-law was a victim of credit card theft and it took a long time to get it resolved. My purse was stolen once, but I didn't have any credit cards or cash (what a surprise they had when they opened it up :eek: ). Even though, I still felt very violated.
Julie Mercer

[Roxann Wurst]

While this article is a sad commentary on humanity, I'm glad it's posted here to make us more aware of the possibilities.

[Angela Beck]

Julie,
That is really neat. I actually live 1/2 way between Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo. This is so neat to know that there is someone else that lived close by. Let me know what you see on observing people ok. :p
Angela Beck

[Carolyn Peddicord -]

Julie,
It was the same for me, had my purse stolen and only had about $12 in it so I'm sure they were disappointed. The worst part was the credit cards I did have, I wasn't at home and didn't have their phone numbers to cancel it immediately.

Sorry to hear about your brother-in-law. It is my understanding that most times it takes a long time to straighten it out and usually don't fully recover but credit card companies are getting better at not holding you liable.

[Angela Beck]

Julie and Carolyn,
Sorry for both of you for having your purses stolen. Years ago at a job that use to have, a person that I thought was my freind stole just my checkbook out of my purse in my licker. I thought that I locked but I guess I didn't. She wrote lots of checks all over. She was caught and had to pay the places back and spend sometime in jail, but not enough as far as I am concern. After jail she did 3 years probation. So I do know what you are going through.
Angela Beck :mad:

[Michael Harris]

To All:

I have run some tests over the years, as have a few of my colleagues. It is surprising how hard it is to get a credit card if you tinker with the data - transpose an SSN, have the wrong birthdate, etc.

The bad guys are either being very careful not to make mistakes or they know who the incompetent credit card issuers are.

Personal data is so easy to get, but hard to use in other situations. In New Jersey, it is very hard to get a picture drivers license if you do not have the 6 points worht of ID. I know so many people who cannot get a picture drivers license (cannot fly without picture ID), but can get a US passport with no trouble. Does anyone see a problem here?

[Julie Mercer -]

While this article is a sad commentary on humanity, I'm glad it's posted here to make us more aware of the possibilities.
Roxann,
I agree. Even though information like this is disturbing, I would rather things be in the light, than kept in the dark. I feel more protect when I am knowledgable about crime.
Julie Mercer

[Bridgett Brown]

Yes, I too, feel it's important to be aware, knowledgeable, and informed of the various 00000 to prevent being a victim.

[Luci Gomes-Bickunas]

I found this article to be very helpful and insightful and I thank you for writing it. However, I would keep in mind that sometimes things aren't always what they seem and perhaps the problem is not as widespread as we would believe.

[Bruce Wagner]

Here's a **** warning I recieved from my state association list serve.

Bruce Wagner, LPI
Omniscient Investigations

CREDIT CARD **** ALERT

"VISA" and "MasterCard". It worked like this: Person calling says, this is name
and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud department at VISA. My Badge
number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern,
and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card issued by name
bank. Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a
marketing company based in Arizona? When you say "No", the caller continues
with, "then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company
we have been watching and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under
the $500 purchase pattern tha
the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?" You
say "yes". Caller
continues..."I will be starting a Fraud investigation. If you have any
questions, you should
call the 800 number listed on your card 1-800-VISA and ask for Security. You
will need to refer to this control #". Then gives you a 6 digit number - "Do
you need me to read it again?"
Caller then "needs to verify you are in possession of your card. Turn card
over. There are 7 numbers; first 4 are your card number, the next 3 are the
security numbers that verify you are in possession of the card. These are
the numbers you use to make internet purchases to prove you have the card.
Read me the 3 numbers". Then says "That is correct", I just needed to verify
that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your
card. Do you have any other questions? Don't hesitate to call back if you
do.
You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the card
number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20
minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA security
department told us it was a **** and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase
of $497.99 was put on our card. Long story made short, we made a real fraud
report and closed the VISA card and they are reissuing us a new number. What
the **** wants is the 3-digit PIN number. By the time you get your
statement, you think the credit is coming, and then it's harder to actually
file a fraud report.
The real VISA officials reinforced that they will never ask for anything on
the card that they already know. What makes this more remarkable is that on
Thursday, I got a call from "Jason Richardson of MasterCard" with a
word-for-word repeat of the VISA ****. This time I didn't let him finish. I
hung up. We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA. The police said
they are taking several of these reports daily, and to tell friends,
relatives and co-workers.
Please pass to your family members and friends. While we are all careful,
these people are getting smarter and prey on the naive ones.

[Julie Mercer -]

Bruce,
There certainly are a lot of creative, devious individuals out there preying upon the innocent & naive! Posting this information helps everyone! Thanks
Julie Mercer

[Michael Harris]

Bruce,

Thanks for the update. I had not heard of that one before. You will notice that the perpetrators are getting slicker all the time.

I had a call today from a firm that said I was on a list from the government to receive a business grant from $8,000 to $25,000 and that I was guaranteed at least $8,000. I listened to the speil for some time and it sounded GOOD. The guy said the company would send out the paperwork. Everything sounded okay until he needed my bank account information to do the direct deposit. I said that I never gave out that information and said goodbye.

This **** was slick. The dollar amounts were not so excessive to scare you into thinking it was a fraud. I was actually disappointed that it was not real. I could use about $15,000 for education and new computers.

[Angela Beck]

Bruce,
I like to thankyou for that information. I copied it and put it in my manual for information to remember. It takes all kinds of people.Again thank you for the input. :p
Angela Beck

[Angela Beck]

Michael,
I am sorry that it wasn't real. That could have been nice to get some money for scooling and such. :p
Angela Beck

[Angela Beck]

OOPS! I meant schooling. :eek:

[Barbara Compton]

You know I got to thinking while I was at the junk yard today with my son. Do you realize how much information is left in cars??? :eek: In a matter of 2 minutes (while I was waiting for son to take parts off) I have found out that the previous owner was fired from her job, where she banked and even where she rented movies. I guess what I'm trying to say is there are other avenues that they can go for credit card fraud or even identity theif.

Just a thought
Barbara Compton

[Angela Beck]

Barbra,
I never thought of that but that is nice to know. Same as if you go to a dump and look around, you find all kinds of stuff there too, that is a big :eek: . Thanks for your thought, I will keep that in mind.
Angela Beck :p

[Wendy Brown]

What bothers me is when you write a check they ask for ID. But when you have a credit card they don't ask at all! To me it doesn't make sense. :confused:

Hi Barbara,

I've noticed this too, however, most will turn the card over and look at the signature. It seems silly to me that they'd check for a signature when they never appear to compare it to the signature on the receipt. And then, it's not necessarily proof that it's me since most people taking your card are not handwriting experts.

A couple years ago I decided to write on the signature line "Please check CDL" instead of signing my name. It's been very effective. Now they can see that the name on the card matches the name on the ID. And, the face on the ID matches that of the user.

I know this isn't a deterent to purchases made on the internet but it sure helps in public places where they can and should ask for proof.

[Wendy Brown]

Thieves know this is the case and that their chances of being prosecuted are slim. Until credit card companies aggressively pursue credit card theft, this nonsense will continue.

Sincerely,
Bruce Wagner, LPI

Bruce,

I agree. Let's hope that eventually credit card companies can no longer afford to take the 'hits' and start prosecuting.

I imagine they have insurance to cover such losses but you'd think their insurance rates would go up along with the number of claims being filed.

[Wendy Brown]

Yes, I too, feel it's important to be aware, knowledgeable, and informed of the various 00000 to prevent being a victim.


'Awareness' is always a good 'crime deterrent'.

[Wendy Brown]

Dragos, et al,

I have only one problem. The police may be scaring the public more than necessary.

Too often, polilce or prosecutors will see an isolated crime and blow it up into the next major crime wave. This is often done to get more money for their departments or, in the case of prosecutors, to advance themselves politically. We have seen several examples of this reported here in the IPIU forums [which is why I will not mention the police/prosecutor 00000 by name].

Michael,

Good point. My family has had it's own personal experience in the 'for political gain' arena. Thanks for balancing the scales.

Wendy Brown

[Keith Hollen]

Credit card fraud is a very big business. I was a credit and debit card investigator for First Union/Wachovia bank in Charlotte, NC for over 3 years and we would monitor the activity of credit cards and have to determine if we thought the activity could be fraud and if so then place a block on the card. It has become even bigger with computer hackers. Some days we would get a list with over 1000 up to 5000 card numbers and we would have to block all the cards and contact the cardholders to let them know their number had been used by a hacker. As far as persons at stores looking at the signature on back or id, very few do it.

[Angela Beck]

I deeply agree about not checking I.D. but in most stores now have a thing for the customer to swipe their card and the cashier never gets to touch it. That makes very hard to check signitures and such. Todays society makes difficult because they want things to go faster because everyone is in a hurry.
Angela Beck :p

[Jordan W. Thompson]

Bank of America has started giving their card holders the option to have their pictures on the actuall debit or credit card. I've heard their fraud claims had taken a pretty decent drop since then. We should all pressure our banks and credit card companies to do the same. Writing "see ID" on your card seems like the next best option.

It would also be a good idea to have a secret 4 number pin that must be used when purchasing stuff with your credit card on the internet.

[Angela Beck]

Jordan,
Something should be done. Those are some very good ideas and one of these days maybe it will sink in. but who knows for sure.
Angela Beck :confused:

[Barbara Bacon -]

Hi
I live in Charlotte, and I have been asked for my ID on numerous occassions. I also have my picture on the credit card that I use and my debit card. Thanks to this option from Bank of America.
Per, a friend in the credit card business, the interest rates stay high to cover some of this loss. But, I agree they should go after some of these people. Especially, since it's "glamorized" by some of these commercials. Initially they gave me the creeps. Now alot of people think they are entertainment. ??
The whole system needs an overhaul. Now there's a new reality show!
Okay, I'll stop.
Barb

[Keith Hollen]

I have to agree with you Barb on the commericals. My wife and several friends talk about these things and even look forward to the new ones. I am sure once it happpens to them it will not be to funny. I know at Wachovia we use to go after these folks the best we could. There are groups that monitor the activity, then another group that does"in House" investigation (Ie looking the accounts, any video footage etc) and then the outside investigators that actually work the cases and try to locate the criminals. Until I worked there I did not know how much they did to try and stop these fraud cases and certainly did not know how much was lost. Wachovia had estimates of how much the would loose each year broke down to each month and wanted each team to keep it under that amount. Barbara with my company in Charlotte if you ever need anything let me know.

Thanks
Keith

[Barbara Bacon -]

Hi Keith,
It is nice to know that a bank is making concerted effort to go after these people. I never got a real good answer from my bank. Also, you never read about anyone getting caught, tried and punished.
I have sent all my paperwork back and now I wait for the manual, study and take the test. I can't wait to get started on an assignment.
If I need anything I will be sure to let you know. Thank you again for offering.
Have a great weekend. Try and stay cool.
Regards,
Barb

[Frederick Budde]

I have a "zip" file you all might be interested in. Can anyone show me how to paste it into a reply?

[Kenneth Gaynor]

Dragos

Thanks for the info. I'm a new to the forums and the article you sent was great.

Thanks
Kenneth

[Victoria S Kinney]

It is a shame that our country has come to this, where people are stealing other people's identities. Now adays you have to be careful if you do online banking to. There is a way that someone can get your banking information as well as your account number and balances. I don't like to give my credit card number on line either. I do have a question for anyone, when you fill out a job application and they ask you for your Social Security number can you refuse to put it on the application, and can a employer not hire you for that reason?

[Flora Porter]

Excellent point! They should require a password like they do on a debt card.
Julie Mercer

Julie you are right

I was thinking the same thing. When i saw your post i knew
something like a personal pass word would be private enough
to make credit card payments. I still would rather see some
ID and your signature.Thanks for suggestions :cool:

Flora Porter
P.I. Trainee

[Flora Porter]

You never know what's going on anyway when they disappear with your credit card for a few minutes. That's one reason why I am a creature of habit. I try to frequent the same reputable establishments no matter where I am. If traveling...I go on recommendations or patronize chain locations to try to minimize my risks.

I am very interested in investigating credit card fraud cases. I want to learn all about the "How To's" and stop the thieves dead in their tracks! It is important to stop this kind of crime and make it known to the public that these thieves are not getting away with it. Thanks for your posting.

Melba
Hi Melba,

I would like to know more about credit card fraud. There are so much 00000000 going on personal credit cards. That is why I always make a point of requesting to see ID when purchases are made. And I stand in front of the register
to wait for your signature to return your license and give receipt. I just dont know how they do it? Steal credit card :confused: numbers? I would not mind being a mystery shopper!?

Flora Porter
P.I. Trainee

[Flora Porter]

Credit Cards IdentityTheft Rise
I agree about this which is a good point. If someone's bank account number was used to pay for the merchandise, Why the figureprints/or palmprints authenticators was not process.
HI Prem, Good point!

If someone's bank account number was used to pay for merchandise why the fingerprints/or palmprints?Good question? :confused:

I only wonder if checks tracking numbers can be decoded?
or if the sales cashier added extra sales to your credit card? :(

Our inquiring minds would like to know? Umm

Flora Porter
P.I.Trainee

[Angela Beck]

Victoria,
I don't know about that but I would like to know too. The Doctors offices also like to have it and my husband doesn't like to give it but I figure that it is the Drs. office with hippa but as you say anyone can find that out if they get on the computer. It is sad when people have to stup that low to ruin someone elses life and when they get caught their own. I don't know how we can change things except the banks making it harder for people to use stollen credit cards.
Angela Beck
:( :(

[Rachael Kostic]

Credit card fruad is a scary thing it's happening all over and I also think it would be interesting to be a mystery shopper

[Flora Porter]

Sidney,

I worked for a consulting firm supporting a major US Navy program (we spent $2B a year). We did some very unorthodox (unethical) things to extract money form Congress.

We did not hurt anyone physically to do so.

Hello Micheal,

I notice that you have a very impressive background :cool:
Were you ever in the service? What branch? Navy Seals?
Government agent?

Interesting enough i do enjoy reading and learning from all forum members.

ps: I know you would not really hurt anybody :cool:

Flora Porter
P.I. Trainee

[Flora Porter]

Victoria,
I don't know about that but I would like to know too. The Doctors offices also like to have it and my husband doesn't like to give it but I figure that it is the Drs. office with hippa but as you say anyone can find that out if they get on the computer. It is sad when people have to stup that low to ruin someone elses life and when they get caught their own. I don't know how we can change things except the banks making it harder for people to use stollen credit cards.
Angela Beck
:( :(
Angela i was thinking maybe some stiffer penalties.
Imprison, harsh fines, and of coarse made public.

For awareness we need to know about these crimes.

Flora Porter
P.I. Trainee

[Angela Beck]

Flora,
You are right , we do need stiffer penalties. Sometimes though that doesn't help, I work at a large chain of grocery/clothing store and the employees see that the other employees get caught steeling but they still do it anyway and they think that they wont get caught but they do. I just don't understand way people think that they can get away with something like that. Sometimes I just have to laugh at that.
Angela Beck :p :p

[Patrice-Maria Love]

Thanks for the information on credit card theft. I agree, the cashier should ask for id, but they don't. It pays to observe how long it takes when the waitress bring your card back to you in the restaurant. Now I will observe if the waitress is going directly to the cashier. You see how slick these criminals operated!

[Flora Porter]

BIG BUST!!TODAY

BOYFRIEND GIRLFRIEND RING Picked up for stolen credit cards.
FAKE ID PASS PORTS as well

P.I.Trainee
Flora Porter

[Edward Ruebensam]

Barbara,
On the back of ALL my credit cards & debt card in the signature area I write, SEE ID. It truly amazes me that the clerks will turn it over and look at the signature space and not ask to see my ID. The other day I went to the store and used my debt card to buy cat food. The guy turned my debt card over, looked at me and said, "you don't mind if I don't ask for your ID you do?" Oh my gosh!!!!!! :eek:

If I am in a hurry and a clerk does ask for my ID, I take the time to show her! In fact, even though I am in a hurry I show my ID. I pull out my credit or debt card along with my license.

Julie Mercer

:cool: I don't sign the back of my credit card either. And I have never been ask for id. I just look at the cashier and ask to talk to a manager because without my id anyone can use my credit card if nobody ask for my id.

I would have been :eek: shocked if someone asked me for my id.

[Brenda Templin]

When I managed apartments, I had a corporate card with my name on it. I was amazed that Home Depot accepted the card for some very large purchases and never asked for id.

One time my maintenance man needed a part in a hurry, and was trying to meet a deadline. Since I had left my card in my apartment, I borrowed his card, which was authorized on the same account. I also took along id that showed I was the manager in case they questioned it. However, they allowed me to use the card with a male's name and did not ask for any kind of id. I mentioned this to the clerk, and her reply was that she knew the card was good. I couldn't believe it. If the card had been lost or stolen, anyone could have walked in and used it. Unbelievable!

By the way...my maintenance man's name was Oscar...not a name that is ever used for a female!

Make it happen!
Brenda

[Frederick Budde]

Interestingly enough, I moved to southern NJ in May, and have been outfitting my house, eating in restaurants, shopping and everything else, with my credit card bills still going to my home in NY. Yesterday for the first time, I was asked to provide my billing address zip code (still no ID). And this with thousands of dollars a month going on the cards! Maybe I just look honest? Nah, that's definitely not the case!

[Flora Porter]

Julie and Carolyn,
Sorry for both of you for having your purses stolen. Years ago at a job that use to have, a person that I thought was my freind stole just my checkbook out of my purse in my licker. I thought that I locked but I guess I didn't. She wrote lots of checks all over. She was caught and had to pay the places back and spend sometime in jail, but not enough as far as I am concern. After jail she did 3 years probation. So I do know what you are going through.
Angela Beck :mad:
Hi Angela,
Sorry to hear what you been through at work :mad:
I had the same problem. My co-workers and myself went to a party. Some one was suppose to stay at our table at all times while we dance or mingled. Well, come to find out that twenty dollars had been stolen from my purse. :mad:
For some reason i didn't drive and I road with a friend.
Knowing me i was ready to leave b4 party was over.
I would have taken a taxi, but he would have to make a stop to ATM. I dont like the idea of doing this at night.

P.I. Trainee Flora Porter

[Angela Beck]

Hi Flora,
Thankyou for your kind words. That is awlful if you can't trust the people that you thought that you could isn't it. That was probably the best thing not taking a cab and stopping at atm, you can never tell what could happen. Good Luck.
Angela Beck :p

[Denise Damazio]

I have never been asked for my id when using a credit card. No wonder there is so much credit card fraud. If employees were asked to require this, I think we would have fewer cases.

Denise

[Frederick Budde]

I have never been asked for my id when using a credit card. No wonder there is so much credit card fraud. If employees were asked to require this, I think we would have fewer cases.

Denise
It might not be a bad idea if we, as a group, started offering ID with our credit cards; it might just catch on!. And if questioned, we could explain why we're doing it, and educate the clerks a bit as well.

[Denise Damazio]

I do not understand why businesses don't ask for id if using cc's. Seems to me this should eliminate a good amount of credit card fraud.

I do agree Frederick, maybe the consumer needs to do some educating to protect themselves.

[Michael Harris]

Fred,

Just becareful about your wishes. I have seen clerks try to compare signatures and reject credit cards from the credit card holder because the clerk had no training in comparing signatures.

The clerks in most stores are not capable of ding too much to help the situation - management needs to give them some incentive and TRAINING.

What is really needed is for someone to conduct a study to find out how much it costs the average merchant for fraudulent credit card purchases and then to do a cost/benefit analysis on training clerks to ask for ID. If the cost/benefit analysis shows that it is worthwhile to train the clerks to check ID, then it will happen - but not until then.

[Frederick Budde]

Fred,

Just becareful about your wishes. I have seen clerks try to compare signatures and reject credit cards from the credit card holder because the clerk had no training in comparing signatures.

The clerks in most stores are not capable of ding too much to help the situation - management needs to give them some incentive and TRAINING.

What is really needed is for someone to conduct a study to find out how much it costs the average merchant for fraudulent credit card purchases and then to do a cost/benefit analysis on training clerks to ask for ID. If the cost/benefit analysis shows that it is worthwhile to train the clerks to check ID, then it will happen - but not until then.
At least you've seen clerks reject a CC :eek:
Seriously, though, those are very valid points, but I'm sure someone in the retail field could point us towards studies already conducted showing the loses incurred by CC fraud. The numbers are staggering, I'm sure. And remember, we're all paying for it.

[Michael Harris]

Fred,

I posted some material many, many months ago about the We Card program. IPIU management let us broadcast the information. That was a training program for store clerks to identify false IDs among other things related to the sale of tobacco and alcohol.

What we need now is a comparable training program for credit cards.

[Flora Porter]

Flora,
You are right , we do need stiffer penalties. Sometimes though that doesn't help, I work at a large chain of grocery/clothing store and the employees see that the other employees get caught steeling but they still do it anyway and they think that they wont get caught but they do. I just don't understand way people think that they can get away with something like that. Sometimes I just have to laugh at that.
Angela Beck :p :p

Angie right, :p

You can run but you can not hide :confused:

[Flora Porter]

CRIME BLOTTER
Jacek Jargilomade the mistake recently of signing his own name to a credit card slip at a brooklyn home depot.

Problem was, the credit card he was using belonged to a 60-year-old woman who had
reported it stolen last month.

After tracking him down Tuesday to the apartment he shared with his girlfriend,
Cops found the couple in possession of three pitbulls, a shotgun, a bunch of new
appliances, 285 credit cards and 564 ID cards. Over the past year, it seems the couple had pickpocketed some 140 people, mostly aboard buses.

fp

[Frederick Budde]

Fred,

I posted some material many, many months ago about the We Card program. IPIU management let us broadcast the information. That was a training program for store clerks to identify false IDs among other things related to the sale of tobacco and alcohol.

What we need now is a comparable training program for credit cards.
Somehow I knew you'd be on top of this, Michael. :)

[Michael Harris]

Fred,

You caught me.

[Frederick Budde]

Fred,

You caught me.

And you guys thought I didn't do anything at work :p

[William Hastings]

hi folks, talking about credit card fraud i had the great pleasure of apprehending 9 store employees for credit card fraud. listen to this, how many of you have went into a new store that was opening in your area and you filled out a application for that stores credit card?? well at the company i was employed at as a loss prevention associate/ trainer it was brought to my attention one day that customers were for some reason or another were being charged for merchandise that they never purchased. so after a long trail of paper work and some covert cameras guess what i found? you got it... the cashiers were using the customers new temporary card numbers to make these transactions. how do you ask? well, when a customer comes in and wants to open a account, the associate hands the customer a application and then calls it in to the credit office. after approval the associate hands the customer a paper temp card and customer, after being told it will take a few days for the card to arrive leaves the store. so what the associates would do is on a new application the would copy the customers number and have the're friends GO SHOPPING! what a surprise when the associates went out in handcuffs for only a few petit larceny, but for those other few lucky associates they were charged with GRAND LARCENY.

[Mark Loyd]

I have a credit card that I use only for work whenever I go out of town.

While travelling out of town for a three day job I stayed at a Holiday Inn, ate at large chain restaruants, rented a car at Avis and purchased gas at stations that were in nice neighborhoods right off of the interstate...except for one station.

I was on the way back to return the rented auto near the airport and had to travel through a section of town that could be considered less than desirable. I filled the car up before returning it and just stopped off to top off the tank.

I used the card at the pump and requested a receipt at the pump. When the receipt came out it was blank. I went inside to ask for a receipt and reported the problem with the attendent.

Two day later the credit card company called asked if I had just purchased Kentucky Fried chicken for $16 in Minnesota and also charged gas in California and Kansas, bought merchandse for hundreds of dollars within the last day...all within the last day.

It would be easy to assume that it was the gas station attendent that had to print out a receipt for me that had stolen my cc number but it could have been at any one of the places.

I do not know if they caught anyone for this but would love to know!

You can never be too careful when using your credit cards.

We are very complacient and trusting in our society today.

Just thought I would pass this alongeven though it was rather lenghty.

Mark

[Robyne Bondi]

Good point on the id. Some places dont even check the signature let alone a picture id.

[Brenda Templin]

I recently made a purchase at Osco's and used my credit card. I was very surprised when the clerk asked to see id, because they don't usually ask. As I was looking in my purse for my id, she explained that they have to start asking now. So that's one store that's making a change. :)

Brenda

[Michael Harris]

Brenda,

That is encouraging. Just keep track of how often they check.

You might want to make a note of how much time it adds to the process and how thoroughly they check. I would be interested in your report.

[Frederick Budde]

I recently made a purchase at Osco's and used my credit card. I was very surprised when the clerk asked to see id, because they don't usually ask. As I was looking in my purse for my id, she explained that they have to start asking now. So that's one store that's making a change. :)

Brenda
Hey, that's a start! I was again asked for my billing zip code, since all the bills go to NY and I'm doing all my shopping in NJ. Maybe people are starting to wake up :confused:

[Julie Mercer -]

I recently made a purchase at Osco's and used my credit card.
Brenda,
Osco's must be a local company, I have not heard of it. Maybe, that idea will come to OH!
Julie

[Brenda Templin]

Hi Julie,

It is not a local store, but might not be in all states. The full name is Osco Drug. I believe they are owned by Albertson's, or were at one time. I have shopped Osco's in several different states. :)

Brenda

[Paul Tetrault -]

Hi Julie,

It is not a local store, but might not be in all states. The full name is Osco Drug. I believe they are owned by Albertson's, or were at one time. I have shopped Osco's in several different states. :)

Brenda

Hey Brenda,

We have Osco drug in Mass as well....But to add to this,Albertson just bought the supermarket chain Shaws so shaws may make changes soon as well if not already...if thats Albertsons changes.

[Paul Tetrault -]

Hey Brenda,

We have Osco drug in Mass as well....But to add to this,Albertson just bought the supermarket chain Shaws so shaws may make changes soon as well if not already...if thats Albertsons changes.

I think we have Osco Drug...either that or i see the commercials too much....lol :)

[Robyne Bondi]

Brenda ,

Thats good to here! I bartend on the weekends in Atlantic city at a big nightclub and we have to check id now also on credit cards. its funny though because some people get offended eventhough its for their own good.

[Denise Damazio]

I went into Academys today, and much to my surprise they asked for my id, and I was using my debit card. That was the 1st time they have ever checked and I go there quite often. Just maybe they are getting smarter!

Denise

[Angela Beck]

What I do know is hand them my I.D. along with my card so that they can check the 2. After doing alot of reading I just feel better about doing that , maybe that might give them alittle hint to do a little more asking.
Angie :p :p

[Frederick Budde]

Another little blurb about identity theft BY PARENTS!!

The newest identity thieves: parents




Credit fraudulently taken out in a child’s name is a growing problem that puts families in an emotional and financial vise. Here’s what to do about it. By Liz Pulliam WestonAngie got a shock when she checked her credit report last year. The Kansas State University student discovered one of the credit cards listed hadn’t been paid in more than two months -- and it wasn’t an account she recognized.“I called my mother to talk to her about it and how I was worried I was a victim of identity fraud,” Angie said. “My mother confessed that she was the one that had used the card when she got in a bind.”The mother had intercepted a preapproved credit card application intended for Angie, forged Angie’s signature and added herself as an authorized user. “She (got the card) thinking she would have it under control, but it went delinquent over Christmas time when money was short,” Angie explained.A small problem that’s growingIdentity theft experts say a small but growing proportion of identity fraud is perpetrated by parents. Some, like Angie’s mother, victimize children who are old enough to establish credit in their own right. Others use the Social Security numbers of their minor children to set up fraudulent accounts that the victims might not discover for years.
“When we first started hearing about it, we were shocked and horrified,” said Beth Givens, head of the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse in San Diego. “It turns out it is more common than you might think.”Linda Foley, founder of the Identity Theft Resource Center, also in San Diego, said she almost never heard about parent perpetrators two years ago but now gets “several complaints a week” from victims or from other adults who have uncovered the crimes.Among her most recent sufferers: five children, all under age 9, whose Social Security numbers were used by their mother to open fraudulent credit cards and other accounts. Their grandmother and the woman’s first two husbands are helping police prosecute the case, Foley said.“She is a user, pure and simple,” Foley fumes. “The children are nothing more than an opportunity to gain money she has not earned.”Unique opportunities to stealNormally, minors can’t get credit cards, since you can’t be held to a contract until you’re 18. But thieves can get away with using minors’ Social Security numbers because credit issuers may not demand proof of age or may be fooled by forged documents.“The credit file begins with the first application, and the information given is taken as truth,” Foley said. The Federal Trade Commission, which broke the news earlier this year that nearly 10 million Americans were victims of identity theft in the last year, found that 9% of victims identified the thief as a family member or other relative. The agency didn’t publish statistics about how many of the credit hijackers were the victims’ parents. (Actually knowing the thief is something of a rarity. Only 26% of victims have any idea who committed the crime, and nearly half don’t know exactly how their personal information was compromised.)But parents, especially those of minor children, have unique opportunities to steal. Not only do they know their children’s Social Security numbers -- the key piece of information needed to open bogus accounts -- but they usually can intercept any mail that could tip off other family members to the crime. Even if their transgressions are uncovered, many can rely on family loyalty to protect them from prosecution.I can’t do that to my parentsAngie, for one, simply couldn’t file the police report that the credit card company demanded before it would remove the account from her credit file. “It’s my mom!” she said. “I know it's wrong of her, but I can't do that to my mom.”Some parental thieves refuse to believe they’ve done anything immoral or illegal. Like other cases of parental theft -- such as raiding custodial accounts, swiping money from trust funds or selling off savings bonds given as birthday presents -- the parents may justify their behavior as ultimately benefiting, or at least not hurting, the victim.“The rationale is, ‘I’ll pay it off. They’ll never be harmed,’” Foley said. If some of the ill-gotten gain is spent on the kids, this attitude is reinforced. “But if you didn’t pay your own bills, what makes you think you’re going to do the right thing now? You still have the same poor money management skills that caused you the problem in the first place.”And such identity theft is far from a victimless crime. Parental ID thieves:· Put long-lasting black marks on their children’s credit. Many ID theft victims learn of the crime when they’ve been turned down for credit, denied an apartment, quoted higher-than-normal insurance rates or contacted by a collections agency threatening to take them to court. The average ID theft victim spends many hours trying to clean up the mess, and the problems can persist for years. Sometimes, it’s not possible to get the messes fixed.· Put their children in an impossible position. To prove the accounts were opened fraudulently, most lenders demand the victims file a police report, which could result in the parent being arrested and prosecuted. While probation is possible for first-time offenders, Foley said, jail time can’t be ruled out.Since Angie couldn’t face that possibility, she decided to take responsibility for the account, paying it off and changing the account’s password and address. The late payments, however, will remain on her credit report for seven years. The delinquencies have driven Angie’s credit score into the low 600s -- an embarrassment for the finance major, who worries future employers will see the black marks and deny her jobs. · Damage their children emotionally by using them for personal gain. Like victims of sexual abuse, these identity theft victims were betrayed by people who are supposed to be protecting them, said Charles Nelson, a San Diego psychologist who has studied the issue for the Identity Theft Center. The victims can wind up having real trouble trusting others and forming relationships, Nelson said.Like Foley, Nelson strongly recommends therapy for victims to mitigate, but not erase, the violation they feel.The victims “will deal with the consequences forever,” Foley said.The need for some tough loveThe issue of parental identity theft has become something of a holy war for Foley, herself a victim of identity theft (although the perpetrator wasn’t a relative). Foley would like to see a national registry created so credit issuers, credit bureaus and federal law enforcement officials could check out the name and age associated with a Social Security number.Foley also has a guide on her Web site for those whose parents have stolen their identities. Among her suggestions:· Consider filing that police report. Taking what seems like a drastic step may be the only way to get your credit cleared -- and to drive home to the perpetrator the seriousness of what he or she has done. “I’m a believer in tough love,” Foley said.· Try mediation. A few victims who were unwilling to file crime reports but who had remorseful parents have been able to get their names removed from credit accounts those parents established. Using an attorney mediator, they had their parents draw up an agreement acknowledging sole responsibility for the account, Foley said. An attorney mediator “is an additional cost, but you show good intent that way,” Foley said. A local bar association can provide referrals to mediators.But credit issuers typically won’t accept such agreements without a significant payment toward the debt. And this assumes the account hasn’t been charged off or sent to collections, which significantly reduces the creditors’ interest in cooperating.· Consider changing your Social Security number. This is a drastic and difficult step, one that the Social Security Administration typically discourages. It’s not a good solution if you have a significant work or credit history that you could lose in the change-over. But if you’re young and just starting out and you can keep the new number a secret from your parent, it could be one solution. The Social Security Administration’s Web site has information about getting a new number.· Be vigilant about your credit reports. Here’s one case where investing in credit monitoring might be a smart idea. At the very least, have fraud alerts put on your credit reports at all three major bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Unfortunately, lenders often ignore fraud alerts, but they’re still worth trying.If you’re a California resident, you currently have the right to “freeze” your credit, which should prohibit anyone from opening an account in your name. (It takes a secret personal identification number, which only you know, to unlock your report so that credit can be granted.)· Expect some emotional fallout. Common reactions to identity theft include feelings of rage, betrayal, isolation and financial insecurity -- emotions that are often amplified when the thief is a parent. Getting therapy can be helpful, as can talking to supportive friends, a clergy member or a support group.“The emotional toll is very deep,” Foley said. “It can be permanently scarring.”

[Robyne Bondi]

Wow thats an interesting article. If you cant trust your parents, then who can you?!

[Frederick Budde]

Wow thats an interesting article. If you cant trust your parents, then who can you?!

Robyne;
I was quite naive about this whole situation. Until recently, I had resumes out on the web showing all my info, as well as my SSN. Thankfully, one of the recruiters called and warned me to take the SSN off of my resume. I'm glad he did ;) ,
and I've tried to be more careful since.

[Robyne Bondi]

What part of it were you skeptical about?

[Angela Beck]

I just can't beleave that it has gotten so bad in this world. I remember being ablr to do alot of stuff when I was younger that now you don't dare to let your children do. Our parents were able to spank us when we were bad and now days it is child abuse. I wish that some things could stay the same while other things can continue to advance forward, can you guys understand that?
Angie :confused:

[Flora Porter]

CC Identity Theft

I was always scary about personal information over the internet.
I notice that others were doing it must not be that bad.securred
I ordered my membership electronically as well as some PI books.
I'll keep my fiingers crossed. My books will be shipped to me soon.

P.I.Trainee
Flora Porter

[Flora Porter]

CC Identity Theft :(

I was always scary about personal information over the internet.
I notice that others were doing it must not be that bad.securred
I ordered my membership electronically as well as some PI books.
I'll keep my fiingers crossed. My books will be shipped to me soon. ;)

P.I.Trainee
Flora Porter

[Paul Tetrault -]

Hello to all,

Flora i think im seeing double...lol :) anyways i was going to tell about my parents and my sisters experience...They decided to get a credit report ,and when they had reviewed it they had noticed some individuals that used their information to apply for mortagages and credit cards.....nothing happened financially but still....scary huh????

[April Rank]

If somebody steals my credit card they will be so embarrassed in front of the whole checkout line as they are planning to buy all that fancy stuff. It'll be denied for going "over limit"!

But about the fingerprints... on that subject there was some other new form of identity check that I've heard about beside's voice patterns and retina scans... Has anyone else heard about what I can't remember? When I heard about it I thought it was really practical and made more sense than fingerprints. Once when I was fingerprinted for a job application they told me they couldn't get a good print because I had worn my fingerprints out... All that scrubbing and cleaning? Anyway, the next time, several years later and in another state, they had no trouble at all and told me that the first guy was full of hogwash.

But, the fingerprint thing is slightly flawed in that they can be burned or cut or removed.

[Frederick Budde]

If somebody steals my credit card they will be so embarrassed in front of the whole checkout line as they are planning to buy all that fancy stuff. It'll be denied for going "over limit"!

But about the fingerprints... on that subject there was some other new form of identity check that I've heard about beside's voice patterns and retina scans... Has anyone else heard about what I can't remember? When I heard about it I thought it was really practical and made more sense than fingerprints. Once when I was fingerprinted for a job application they told me they couldn't get a good print because I had worn my fingerprints out... All that scrubbing and cleaning? Anyway, the next time, several years later and in another state, they had no trouble at all and told me that the first guy was full of hogwash.

But, the fingerprint thing is slightly flawed in that they can be burned or cut or removed.
April;
That was cute about being "maxed out" :p
What you were refering to is called "biometrics" and is a relatively new way of providing instant identification verification. Industry seems to be leaning toward retinal scanning, as opposed to voice printing. There are also some software programs available (to police only) that do an amazing job of facial recognition, even if only a part of the face (or head) is visible. The next time you see one of those cameras panning towards you, you can be assured your face is being searched among the databases. Remember, just because you're paranoid doen't mean they're not watching you :)
The comment about removing fingerprints is repeated on many TV shows, but to effectively remove the ridges, the skin must be disfigured, and that in itself, provides a great means of identification.

[Robyne Bondi]

Hey Fredrick,

here's one for everyone to laugh at!! I had a guy come in the nightclub where I bartend this weekend with a stolen c/c. When I asked for his Id, he gave me his dr.license with the card that had someonelse's not only name but, also picture on it!!!!!!!! Yeah he needed another drink!!!!

[Paul Tetrault -]

Hey Robyne,

They come quite dumb dont they.............thanks for the laugh....:)

[Julie Mercer -]

When I asked for his Id, he gave me his dr.license with the card that had someonelse's not only name but, also picture on it!!!!!!!! Yeah he needed another drink!!!!
UH HUH! He's busted! :eek: Sounds like he needs something! Hum? A brain?
Thanks for sharing that story. Good job with following-up on the ID check! :)
Julie

[Frederick Budde]

Hey Fredrick,

here's one for everyone to laugh at!! I had a guy come in the nightclub where I bartend this weekend with a stolen c/c. When I asked for his Id, he gave me his dr.license with the card that had someonelse's not only name but, also picture on it!!!!!!!! Yeah he needed another drink!!!!

Robyne;
Where in AC do you bartend?

[Flora Porter]

UH HUH! He's busted! :eek: Sounds like he needs something! Hum? A brain?
Thanks for sharing that story. Good job with following-up on the ID check! :)
Julie
Julie, Robyne thanks for the heads-up. :rolleyes: Sounds like he had too much to drink already. lol

Flora

[Flora Porter]

Hey Fredrick,

here's one for everyone to laugh at!! I had a guy come in the nightclub where I bartend this weekend with a stolen c/c. When I asked for his Id, he gave me his dr.license with the card that had someonelse's not only name but, also picture on it!!!!!!!! Yeah he needed another drink!!!!

Hi Robyne,
Thanks for your condolences.

Porter

[Robyne Bondi]

Dear Fredrick,

I bartend at dejaVu, or some people still know it as tattingers. Well I'm glad everyone liked that story! With the holiday weekend coming up I'm sure i'll have some good stories for everyone next week!

[Frederick Budde]

Dear Fredrick,

I bartend at dejaVu, or some people still know it as tattingers. Well I'm glad everyone liked that story! With the holiday weekend coming up I'm sure i'll have some good stories for everyone next week!
I'm traveling this weekend (out west), but I'll stop in some weekend and introduce myself :) Hope you have a safe and profitable weekend!

[Robyne Bondi]

Hey Fred,

Thanks alot, Be careful also traveling this weekend. Talk to you soon.

[Frederick Budde]

Hey Fred,

Thanks alot, Be careful also traveling this weekend. Talk to you soon.
Thanks Robyne;
And that goes for all our members and their families; be safe and be careful this holiday weekend!

[Angela Beck]

Sorry that it has been awhile sense I have been on. I read the story, great looking forward to the next one. Just wanted to say to everyone to have a safe Holiday weekend. :p
Angela

[Frederick Budde]

Sorry that it has been awhile sense I have been on. I read the story, great looking forward to the next one. Just wanted to say to everyone to have a safe Holiday weekend. :p
Angela
No excuses Angela! We miss you when you don't check in on a regular basis :) . I hope you've been busy doing productive things, like assignments?

[Angela Beck]

I have actually been layed up with my knee still, the Dr. said that I need a total knee replacement but I am too young and that I have to just bare with it for as long as I can. I guess that he doesn't realize how painful this is and he won't let me work at my regular job, so I don't know how long I am going to have that job wait for me. I have been pretty down in the dumps.
Angela Beck

[Michael Harris]

Angela,

I am sorry about your knees. The usual age for a knee replacement is 65+ since the knees only last 10 to 15 years.

Two of the girls my daughter played soccer with had knee replacement surgery before they were 18. Soccer is a killer, my daughter had to stop her freshman year in high school because she ruined her ankles.

Again, best of luck with your knees.

[Denise Damazio]

Hi Angela,

So sorry to hear about your knee, but look on the bright side.. maybe this is the time for you really to dig into PI work. I believe everything happens for a reason, so maybe your knee problem is a blessing in disquise.

Hope you get to feeling better and you're not in so much pain.

Denise

[Janet Parris]

Someone took my credit card number (not the card) and cleaned out my bank account. The process needs to be looked at again. I now make sure that only the last 4 numbers of my card are on any receipt, if the whole number shows up I cross it out. I also have fraud alerts put on my credit reports to protect me further.

[Frederick Budde]

Angela,

I am sorry about your knees. The usual age for a knee replacement is 65+ since the knees only last 10 to 15 years.

Two of the girls my daughter played soccer with had knee replacement surgery before they were 18. Soccer is a killer, my daughter had to stop her freshman year in high school because she ruined her ankles.

Again, best of luck with your knees.
Believe it or not, I used to play semi-pro soccer and had the priviledge to play against Pele (he made me look like a fool!). That was in the NY Polo Grounds many years ago, and I can attest to the fact that soccer will destroy the knees. The newer composite knees will last considerably longer than the 10-15 years, but up until a few years ago that was the norm. It all boils down to the quality of life, and that is a decision only you can make. Good luck with your decision, and hope you feel better soon!

[Shannon G Smith -]

I haven't seen this posted yet so I thought I would contribute this information. Please be aware of anyone around you with a cell phone while making a purchase. Anyone with a camera-equipped cell phone can use it to snap a shot of a customer's credit card as they prepare to check out. In the matter of seconds, the criminal obtains your name, your credit card number and the expiration date -- all the information needed to go shopping. The criminal is then able to make orders over the internet, catalogs, or over the phone

Shannon

[Janet Parris]

Thank you....I never thought of that. :)

[Frederick Budde]

I haven't seen this posted yet so I thought I would contribute this information. Please be aware of anyone around you with a cell phone while making a purchase. Anyone with a camera-equipped cell phone can use it to snap a shot of a customer's credit card as they prepare to check out. In the matter of seconds, the criminal obtains your name, your credit card number and the expiration date -- all the information needed to go shopping. The criminal is then able to make orders over the internet, catalogs, or over the phone

Shannon
Excellent advice, Shannon. Thanks for the tip!

[Angie Falzon]

I think its a good business practice to get an ID or address and telephone info on customers when they write a check and when they return something, AND to id a customer paying with a credit card. In regards to the second story,those criminals were stupid (thank goodness) when they gave THEIR own id info on the returns.

[Angie Falzon]

Hey Angela Beck,

Have you taken glucosamine sulfate or any essential fatty acids that contain fish oils?

The first one is too repair and build cartilage and the second one lubricates connective tissue. And they both have an anti-inflammatory effect. ( I was going to become a naturopathic doctor!) Well good luck!!

[Michael Harris]

I think we are a little off topic - this is supposed to be Credit Card Identity Theft Rise.

I am as guilty as anyone about getting off topic, but we have to have some self-control.

[Gary Eads]

Thats great advice about the photo cell phone, that never crossed my mind. Thanks for the info.

[Angela Beck]

Hey everybody,
Good advice on the cell phone bit, I never thought ofnthat and I work at a shopping market. I will have to pass that on next time that I go visit my friends there.
Thanks to everyone on their kind words and information,I have tried everything under the sun for my knee problems. This is what happens when you play 12 years of softball, lol.
Thanks again, talk at everyone later, Angie Beck :p

[Brenda Templin]

I think I mentioned a few weeks ago that I went into Osco and found they had a new policy. They asked to see my id when I charged something. Good for Osco!

Well, yesterday morning on the way to work, I stopped at Quick Trip to fill up with gas and get a large cup of coffee for the road. I went to check out and handed the clerk my credit card. She rang up my purchases, handed my credit card back to me and said, "Thank you. Here's your receipt. You don't need to sign anything." Interesting...

At lunch, I went to McDonald's, placed my order and handed the girl my credit card. She rang up the order, handed my card back, and said "Your order will be ready in a moment."

Just when I thought some businesses might be waking up, I used my card twice in one day without being asked to show id or sign anything!

Brenda

[Stephen Scheel -]

I hope they feed that guy to the lions. That is just the thing that makes it hard for an honest person to buy expensive items like a car. Credit is just going to get worse because of this. That is why I chose to become a PI in the IT field.

[Frederick Budde]

I think I mentioned a few weeks ago that I went into Osco and found they had a new policy. They asked to see my id when I charged something. Good for Osco!

Well, yesterday morning on the way to work, I stopped at Quick Trip to fill up with gas and get a large cup of coffee for the road. I went to check out and handed the clerk my credit card. She rang up my purchases, handed my credit card back to me and said, "Thank you. Here's your receipt. You don't need to sign anything." Interesting...

At lunch, I went to McDonald's, placed my order and handed the girl my credit card. She rang up the order, handed my card back, and said "Your order will be ready in a moment."

Just when I thought some businesses might be waking up, I used my card twice in one day without being asked to show id or sign anything!

Brenda
Ouch! It used to be if you lost your wallet you were still reasonably safe, since you always had to sign with your credit card. Now I understand that more merchants are not bothering with the smaller amount purchases. :mad:

[Frederick Budde]

More on Credit Card and Identity theft:

September 14, Associated Press — Man pleads guilty in identity theft case. A computer
technician who prosecutors said made possible the largest identity theft in U.S. history,
surpassing $50 million, pleaded guilty Tuesday, September 14, to conspiracy in a scheme that
poached personal information from tens of thousands of people. Philip A. Cummings worked
from mid−1999 through August 2000 as a help−desk worker at Teledata Communications
Inc., a Long Island, NY, computer software company that provides banks with
computerized access to credit information databases. The government said Cummings
agreed to sell to an unidentified co−conspirator the passwords and codes for downloading
consumer credit reports. Tens of thousands of credit reports were stolen, prosecutors said.
Under a plea agreement, Cummings may be sentenced to at least 14 years in prison for
conspiracy, fraud and wire fraud. According to court documents, Cummings was paid roughly
$30 for each stolen report. The information was passed on to at least 20 individuals who then
set out to make money from the information, feeding a network of criminals nationwide. The
scheme involved tens of thousands of victims and caused losses of between $50 million and
$100 million, the government said.