Protect Yourself

The Long Prairie Police Department and the Todd County Sheriff’s Office wants everyone to be safe. Check back for regular alerts, tips and information to help you do so.

Alerts

We encourage residents to use caution when releasing personal information over the phone. Remember that you should only release personal information to known businesses or agencies. If you don't feel good about releasing information to a source, don't.

The area is seeing a rise in personal information or money scams. Some variations of scams are callers saying that they are part of the IRS or FBI. They may tell you that you owe large amounts of money, or you have won large amounts of money in a lottery. Then they may tell you in order to receive the money you first need to send them bank account information, or a smaller amount of money to cover filing or some sort of fees. Some calls may state that a family member or friend has been arrested and they need to pay a bail amount.

If you are unsure if you should give the information, attempt to get the caller’s name, business, and call back number. Contact your bank or law enforcement and advise them of the incident. They may assist in finding out if it was a scam or not.

Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

Identity theft is a growing crime. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself.

  • Never place outgoing mail in your mailbox.
  • Never give any personal information such as your social security number to anyone unless absolutely necessary and the firm is trusted and reputable.
  • Always shred all credit card offers received in the mail.
  • Obtain a credit report every year to ascertain that no one is damaging your credit.
  • Always use passwords to protect all of your accounts.
  • Be extremely vigilant about checking backgrounds of anyone with whom you propose to do business.

Should you become a victim of identity theft, here is a list of actions to take.

Contact the “Big Three” credit bureaus. Alert them to place a “fraud alert” on your account.

Equifax at 800-525-6285

Experian at 888-397-3742

Transunion at 800-680-7289

  • File a report with your local police. This will help you deal with creditors who need proof of a crime.
  • Contact all your creditors, credit card companies, banks and other lenders.
  • Close any accounts tampered with or opened fraudulently.
  • Notify your bank of check theft and close the account immediately.
  • Contact your attorney immediately to obtain professional advice.
  • Contact your insurance agent for possible coverage.
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