Identity Theft/Forgery

Forgery Victim

If you are a resident of Edgewood and have been a victim of a forgery, immediately close the account that is being used, whether it is a checking account or a credit card account. Report the forgery to your Edgewood PD by either calling the non-emergency number at 253-287-4455 or clicking here to file a police report online.  

Identity Theft Victim

If you are a resident of Edgewood and have been a victim of identity theft, either by the use of your social security number, name and/or credit information, report the forgery to your Edgewood PD by either calling the non-emergency number at 253-287-4455 or clicking here to file a police report online.  Next, notify the Social Security Administration, all three credit bureaus, and the U.S. Postal Inspector or Federal Trade Commission if appropriate. 

  • Social Security Administration Fraud Hotline: 800-269-0271
  • Experian: 888-397-3742
  • Equifax: 800-525-6285
  • Transunion: 800-680-7289
  • Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Hotline: 877-438-4338
  • The U.S. Postal Inspector: 877-876-2455

Tips to Help Prevent Identity Theft

  • Check your credit reports annually with all three credit-reporting agencies
  • Change all passwords regularly
  • Make passwords unique. Mix letters with numbers
  • Memorize passwords. Don’t write them down
  • Be vigilant for unusual charges on your monthly credit card statements, telephone bills and bank statements. Inquire about any charges that are suspicious
  • Guard your Social Security number - don’t carry your card (or your number) in your wallet or purse. Don’t print the number or your driver’s license number or on checks. And don’t give out your Social Security number to anyone unless there is a good reason
  • Be very careful when carrying your insurance identification card. It may contain your social security number
  • Shred papers before throwing them out, especially those containing identifying information such as your social security number. A crosscut paper shredder works best
  • Never provide information over the phone unless you initiated the call and you know the party you are speaking with
  • Use a locked mailbox to send and receive all mail. Never leave your outgoing mail out in a street-side mailbox. If your mail is delivered to a street-side mailbox, pick up delivered mail as soon as possible. Be alert to strangers who may be taking mail out of mailboxes. Only authorized postal carriers have reason to reach into a mailbox. It is illegal for any other person or business to use your mailbox
  • Reduce the number of pre-approved credit card offers you receive by calling 888-5OPTOUT (they will ask for your Social Security number)
  • Register with the Do Not Call Registry 
  • Monitor all your accounts and statements for possible fraudulent activity.

Source: Identity Theft Resource Center

Show All Answers

1. Animal Control
2. Anonymous Tip
3. Beware of Scams
4. Crime Data
5. Crime-Free Multi-Housing Program
6. Hulk/Abandoned Vehicles
7. Identity Theft/Forgery
8. Medicine Disposal
9. Registered Sex Offenders
10. Vacation Check Request
11. Victim Assistance