The First Precinct Community Council

Identity Theft Protection Tips

Identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information, such as your Social Security number, address, phone number or financial account information, and uses it to open up lines of credit in your name.

What you can do to protect yourself?

1. Protect your personal information. Do not give out information such as your Social Security number, and important passwords to your accounts.
2. Never carry your social security Card, memorize the number. If you must give the number for verification over the phone, the last 4 digits should suffice. Institutions should never ask you to provide your full social security number.
3. Do not give personal information over the phone; the caller on the other side may
   not be who they purport to be.
4. Use a secured mail box.
5. Check your credit history and score regularly. Subscribe to a reputable credit monitoring service. It may cost you a fee but peace of mind is priceless.
6. Shred all documents containing important information before disposing of them.

The NYPD Crime Prevention Section hosts shredding events on a monthly basis. For more information on shredding events, tips and other crime prevention programs, contact us at CrimePrevention@nypd.org or 212-614-6741.

PSA Video: Cell Phone / Electronic Device Safety

Defeat a Thief: Safe Subway Riding Tips

• Thieves snatch electronic devices just as the subway’s door open or close, when you’re distracted.
• Don’t let an open door be an invitation to a thief
• Don’t block the door, know your surroundings
• Stay ALERT, especially when listening to music
• Don’t stay by train doors
• Stay with others during off-peak hours
• Use designated waiting areas
• Ride in the conductors car
• Keep electronic devices hidden
• Be Alert for staged distractions
• Carry handbag / wallet up front

…and REMEMBER IF YOU SEE SOMETHING SAY SOMETHING

New Crime Stoppers Poster

Here is a link to download the Crime Stoppers poster for the residential Burglary Pattern in Soho. Please send it out to all your contacts.