Irvine police are seeking a man in an identity-theft investigation involving more than $90,000 in reported losses.
The department is asking for help identifying him from photographs taken at financial institutions.
How Stolen Bank Details Led to Cash Withdrawals and New Credit Cards
Investigators say he used stolen identification and bank account information to withdraw large sums of cash from several accounts. The transactions were captured on bank surveillance cameras, according to New Santa Ana’s report.
The man also opened several credit card accounts in the same victim’s name, police say. Those accounts were used for multiple large purchases.
Irvine Police Seek Tips About the Man in the Photos
Anyone who recognizes the man or has information about the case can contact Investigator Nina Berbiglia at 949-724-7136. Tips can also be emailed to nberbiglia@cityofirvine.org.
Check Bank Transactions and Credit Reports for Unauthorized Activity
People who discover identity theft should contact the affected bank or card issuer’s fraud department and ask it to close or freeze compromised accounts, according to the Federal Trade Commission. The agency also recommends changing account logins, passwords and PINs.
To help prevent new credit accounts from being opened, consumers can place a free credit freeze with each of the three credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. They should also review their credit reports for unfamiliar accounts and report identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov for a recovery plan.