It was her job to help others
– not just herself.
But a Target customer service representative was arrested
Wednesday night for identity theft after in-house security
discovered she racked up more than $600 using a customer’s credit
information, police said.
Gilroy – It was her job to help others – not just herself.
But a Target customer service representative was arrested Wednesday night for identity theft after in-house security discovered she racked up more than $600 using a customer’s credit information, police said.
Tanya Frazier, 33, of 6795 Croy Road, was arrested about 5pm for forgery, grand theft and embezzlement. She is no longer an employee of the store.
According to police, Frazier lifted the credit information of a woman who provided her with account information at the customer service booth. Once the victim discovered unauthorized charges were being made, the store was contacted and an investigation was launched.
Target assets protection personnel traced the crimes back to Frazier and contacted the Gilroy Police Department.
“This is a tough case where it’s an employee that is entrusted with credit information,” said Sgt. John Sheedy. “You hope that the people on the other side of the counter are good folks.”
To help prevent identity theft, police recommend shredding credit information and mail containing social security numbers before placing items in recycling bins or trash cans.
Be wary of giving out personal information to over the phone, Sheedy said.
“You have to be vigilant. It’s sad that you have to take the extra step to protect yourself,” he said. “Identity theft has been on the rise for the past couple of years.”
Individuals can steal credit information a number of ways, such as by stealing the numbers given to them by customers and applying for new credit cards using old information, stealing bank statements and mail, or rifling through old receipts in the trash.
It may be weeks before the card holder discovers any unauthorized purchases or finds another credit card issued in their name.
“Take a good look at (your) credit card statements each month,” Sheedy said.
Run a credit history once a year, he recommended.
“You’ve just got to protect yourself and your accounts because there are plenty of eager thieves out there who will take advantage of anyone, anytime they can,” Sheedy said.
