Attempt to fraudulently open bank account in another name falls flat

Photo: Contributed

Stolen personal information led to an attempt of identity fraud as someone unsuccessfully tried to open a bank account in someone else’s name.

The Nelson Police Department received a call this week from a Nelson resident who reported that someone was fraudulently using their name and personal information to attempt to open a bank account.

“This type of identity theft is common and can be perpetrated by someone with no connection to the victim,” said NPD special Const. Silk Edwards.

The caller explained that they had been using an online financial service a few years ago, which had a security breach resulting in users’ personal information being leaked. Since then, they have closely monitored their accounts, and twice have had people attempt to open lines of credit with private companies using their name.

In this most recent identity fraud attempt, they were contacted by a bank, who informed them that someone had attempted to open an account using their details. The suspect was unsuccessful, and no money was taken from their accounts.

If you are affected by this type of privacy breach, contact Equifax or TransUnion, said Const. Edwards.

“These are the largest companies that deal with credit score and they can ensure that your personal information is not used in a way that impacts your credit rating,” she said.

More information on fraud and identity theft can be found at the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website: https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm

If you believe that you have been impacted by this type of privacy breach, you can contact the Nelson Police Department.

Calls for service

• Members of the Nelson Police Department responded to 111 calls for service in Nelson during the reporting period of Jan. 26 Feb. 1.