Public Safety Puts the Breaks on Identity Theft
After careful investigation by the Public Safety department of The
Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) and the Baltimore County
Police Department a credit card scheme was halted and a suspect was
arrested and charged with multiple counts of identity theft. The
suspect, who was a recently hired CCBC employee with legitimate access
to student financial information, allegedly committed these crimes over
a three-month period. His employment has been terminated.
Within two weeks of the suspect’s employment, CCBC Public Safety became
suspicious of illegal activity. The department quickly contacted
Baltimore County Police and started an internal investigation in order
to protect students. The college immediately placed additional security
controls on its student information system. This includes enhanced
limitations on access to student financial information.
All victims identified at this time have received restitution; however,
the investigation is ongoing. As a precaution, all students who
registered by credit card during the months of July and August are
encouraged to check their credit card statements. Students who
discover any suspicious charges should contact the CCBC Office of Public
Safety (410-455-4455), who will act on their behalf with the
Baltimore County Police Department to investigate and assist with
restitution.
This investigation is still ongoing with the Baltimore County Police
Department (BCPD).
Please read the following safety precautions in reference to
ID/credit card fraud:
The single most important thing to do is obtain a copy of your credit
report from the three major credit report agencies at least once a
year and review it carefully. This is free in Maryland.
-
Equifax: 800-685-1111
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Experian: 888 EXPERIA
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Trans Union: 800-888-4213
Be cautious of giving out personal data.
-
Never give personal information over the phone, unless you have
initiated the call.
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Do not carry your SS# with you
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Do not place your social security number on your checks
-
Do not carry account numbers, passwords and other such information
with you.
CCBC Students who have registered by credit card should check their
credit card statements and report any suspicious charges to Public
Safety at 410-455-4455.
OBSERVE & REPORT
CCBC Catonsville 410-455-4455 W228
CCBC Dundalk 410-285-9700 L101
CCBC Essex 410-780-6300 A110
~Public Safety~
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