Identity Theft Presentation a Success

The North Reading Community Impact Team recently partnered with the North Reading Police Department and O’Leary Senior Center to present a safety talk on identity theft for local seniors. 25 attendees listened to the hour-long presentation by Sergeant Thomas Encarnacao and were invited to ask questions and share concerns. Sgt. Encarnacao included information such as how identity theft occurs, how to prevent it, what to do if you become a victim, and some of the more current scams. “Seniors are often targets for phone call or email scams, especially as the generations become more tech-savvy,” he explained. “We want to inform you of some of the scams out there so that you can protect yourself.” He continued to explain in details scams that include grandchildren and ransom, jury duty, wiring money, insurance, and charity scams. Sgt. Encarnacao also offered advice including how to properly shred personal documents, reviewing statements regularly, checking your credit report annually, and how to protect oneself at home. He suggested, “If you feel like something isn’t right about an unsolicited call or email, take action. Hang up, don’t click through on links or open the email, and contact the police department.” The event was recorded by NORCAM and will be offered on their public channel. The presentation was part of an on-going series of public presentations offered by the Community Impact Team this year as part of their safety grant. For more information on upcoming presentations, contact Amy Luckiewicz at northreadingcit@gmail.com or call 978.357.5281.