Links to Check for Title Theft & Request Free Credit Reports on Property Tax Page
SANTA ANA, Calif. – The nation recognizes the week of January 26 to January 30 as National Identity Theft Awareness Week to provide information of interest to consumers to protect their money.
Treasurer Shari L. Freidenrich is leading the Orange County education efforts for Identity Theft Awareness Week. This is a yearly event promoted by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) with proclamations issued by the President of the United States. “Identity theft and phishing are an increasingly significant problem in today’s society,” Treasurer Freidenrich said. “Requesting a copy of your annual credit report is an excellent way to combat identity theft, and reports can be requested annually. To monitor your credit report, go to consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports or call 1-877-322-8228,” Freidenrich added.
In 2024, the FTC received 2.6 million victim reports describing losses of more than $12.5 billion to fraud – a 25% jump in losses in one year. Imposter scams, when someone pretends to be someone you trust, led to losses of $2.95 billion. In addition, over 1 million identity theft reports were filed that year.
To help combat cybercrime, during Identity Theft Awareness Week a flyer and materials were distributed at the County Service Center focusing on identity theft, scams, small business, and internet safety for children. In addition, the FTC hosted a series of free online seminars and other events on how to avoid and recover from identity fraud. Scan the QR code or go to consumer.ftc.gov/features/identity-theft-awareness-week for more information.
Check out the new features on the OC Treasurer’s property tax website parcel page which now provides links for you to check for title fraud (follow the steps explained within the black “i” button), and to obtain one of your free annual credit reports. To visit your parcel page, just scan the QR code in the top right section of your secured property tax bill which goes directly to your parcel page online, or visit TaxBill.octreasurer.gov and input your parcel number or address. Once on your parcel page, click on either of the links which are included on the top of the page and then follow instructions to check for title fraud or obtain a free credit report.
The County Service Center is located at 601 Ross St. in Santa Ana and is open Monday through Friday 9 am to 5 pm. A parking map is available at octreasurer.gov/octaxparking.
