The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has seen an increase in fraud in the northwest area of Tucson over the last several weeks.  In most cases, debit cards and pin numbers have been compromised.  Since February 7, 2008, at least 61 victims have reported suspicious activity involving their debits cards. Most of the activity occurred between January 24, 2008, and January 28, 2008, at the Walgreens located at Thornydale and Ina Roads, with the dollar amount exceeding $50,000.00.  Anyone utilizing their debits cards at the Thornydale and Ina Roads Walgreens is asked to scrutinize their bank statements for any fraudulent activity.  If anything appears suspicious, law enforcement should be notified immediately, as well as the financial institution.

It is crucial that every citizen in Pima County takes responsibility for protecting themselves against fraud.

• Never respond to an unsolicited email that asks for personal details - even your bank would never ask you to reveal your PIN or passwords in full;
• Shield your PIN with your hand or body from anyone near or behind you;
• Request that a salesperson look away while you enter your PIN number;
• If you believe your PIN has been jeopardized, contact your bank and request it be changed;
• Never give your personal information unless you are sure who you are giving it to and how it will be used;
• Ensure all personal information is shredded before you dispose of it.