Green Bay Police are reminding everyone to protect themselves from identity theft.
Tax time is when many people find out that they are victims of identity theft, when they try to file their taxes and discover that someone has already filed a fraudulent tax return in their name, according to police.
Police say in 2015 they had 146 reported cases of identity theft that was related to fraudulent tax returns. So far in 2016 they have had 22 cases reported after people tried to file their tax returns and found out someone had already filed in their name.
They say there are many ways criminals can get your personal information and you can protect yourself by being mindful of where you store and give out your personal information. Also, be sure to use secure electronic networks and shred documents that people could use to get your identity.
Green Bay Police say if you become a victim of fraudulent tax returns you should contact the department. They say if someone has filed a fraudulent tax return they often have other information that could affect your credit.
Also, there are forms you will need to complete and submit to the IRS. These forms are on the IRS website here and here.
