Tempe lieutenant: Holiday shopping fuels surge in identity thefts

TEMPE, Arizona — For many, the holidays mean a lot of extra shopping, but they could also elicit extra opportunities for identity thieves to obtain sensitive information.

The Tempe Police Department is warning Valley residents this holiday season to take extra precaution in safeguarding their personal information.

“This time of year, we always see a rise in identity theft,” said Tempe police Lt. Mike Pooley.

While holiday shoppers are out hitting stores, Pooley said ID thieves are also out looking to take advantage of the surging number of credit cards used to purchase gifts this season.

“When you throw your receipts away, make sure you dispose of them properly,” he said. “Always make sure you’re keeping your (credit) cards safe, you’re keeping them secure and you know where they’re at.”

Checking balances and purchase statements can help alert shoppers to potential identity theft and help minimize the damage, Pooley said.

“Keep on top of your spending. Know what’s being spent,” he said. “If you start seeing expenditures that are not made by you, you need to report that immediately.”

Pooley said as more holiday shoppers turn to online retailers, ID thieves are increasingly targeting mailboxes with packages and other sensitive information inside.

“If you have a mailbox, make sure you get your mail on a daily basis,” Pooley said.

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