The Mercer Island Police Department (MIPD) lists fraud and identity theft as two of the most common crimes on its investigative docket.

In recent Reporter police blotters, entries have included someone attempting to open a mortgage with the social security number of a resident; a resident reporting that they were a victim of a cryptocurrency scam; and some residents discovering their cell phone numbers had been ported to another cellular provider.

To keep residents safe from online hackers, the MIPD encourages them to keep their software up to date; use an anti-virus protection and firewall; use strong passwords or a password management tool; use two-factor or multi-factor authentication; learn about phishing scams; be aware of suspicious e-mails, phone calls and fliers; do not use public WiFi; protect their sensitive personal identifiable information; use their mobile devices securely; back up for data regularly; and review their online accounts and credit reports regularly for changes.

Additionally on the city’s Facebook page, MIPD notes “If you get contacted by someone over the phone or through electronic communication that you are not sure is legitimate, ask for their name and information, and then tell them that you will call them back. Then, enter their information into an internet search engine (i.e., Google or Bing) and research their name and contact number. No government agency or bank will call you and ask for money over the phone, especially through a gift card.”

For any concerns, residents can call NORCOM dispatch at 425-577-5656 (non-emergency) and a MIPD officer will lend a hand.

EMPHASIS PATROLS

In response to community feedback and increased activity with the warm weather, MIPD has added several emphasis patrols to keep residents safe on the roads, according to the city’s Facebook page.

Officers are conducting speed and safety patrols around the Mercer Island Loop. The scenic route attracts motorists and cyclists alike, and speeding and reckless driving will not be tolerated, MIPD says.

Lock It or Lose It patrols are also being conducted throughout city parks and gathering areas. MIPD says that car prowls can happen anytime and anywhere: “Make sure to keep vehicles locked and valuables out of sight,” the police added.

If residents notice something suspicious, they are encouraged to call the MIPD non-emergency number 24/7 at (425) 577-5656. Also, if a crime is in progress or someone is endangering others on the road, residents are asked to call 911 immediately.