New Colorado Identity Theft Network
January 13th, 2012 by idtnben
Reporter: Betty Sexton
Colorado tops the charts. It’s number one in a Federal Trade Commission report, but it’s a list we really want to avoid. Based on our population, more Coloradoans have filed fraud complaints than folks in any other state. It’s one reason authorities have formed a new network to better serve victims of fraud and identity theft.
It’s my job to keep on top of these scams so hopefully you won’t become a victim.
We’re talking fake checks delivered to your door with crooks claiming you’ve won a sweepstakes… a con artist sending you too much money for that item you’re selling on craigslist… or a scammer calling you on the phone, crying… impersonating a relative in trouble.
That kind of fraudulent acitivity lands Colorado at the top of the FTC’s Consumer Sentinel Report with more than 21,000 people filing fraud complaints.
As far as identity theft, the fastest growing crime in the U.S. Colorado ranks 11th, behind states like California, Texas, and New York.
It all happened really quick!” says Tiffany Stocker, who works in the KKTV Sales Department.
We took an informal poll here at KKTV to see how many people had been victims of identity theft. More than half had encountered problems. Tiffany says a woman impersonated her, opening accounts all over town.
Tiffany explains, “I mean they spent about $15-20,000. They opened that up in instant credit accounts at about five different stores.”
To combat ID theft, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation is creating a statewide network called ITAN, identity theft advocacy network.
It will compile a directory, a list of those statewide who deal with victims. That will help everyone involved work together across county lines.
Next, authorities will look for any gaps and offer training to those who deal with ID theft cases. The goal… making sure all core responders are well trained and coordinated in their efforts.
The CBI has a 24-hour, toll free hotline. If you’re a victim of identity theft looking for help, just call this number.
It’s 1-855-443-3489.
