The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office has had calls from residents who have received either an Amazon Credit Card, issued by Chase Bank, or a letter saying that their credit card application had been denied. None of the callers had requested the said card. Some of the complaints issued stated that the fraudulent materials had used resident’s maiden names and outdated addresses that were used before 911 addressing. The Sheriff’s Department is unaware of how resident’s information was obtained, but believe the issue is widespread.
If you receive one of these cards, the Sheriff’s Office recommends calling the issuing company to ensure that the card is not activated. Additionally, they recommend filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint, or call (877) 438-4338. After, contact local authorities and obtain a Police Report.
You may also place a Fraud Alert on your credit report by contacting one of the three nationwide credit reporting companies.
Equifax – (800) 525-6285
Experian – (888) 397-3742
TransUnion – (800) 680-7289
Sheriff Dave Mahon reminds residents to check credit card and bank statements, shred important documents before discarding them, and do not respond to communications requesting personal information.