Identity theft and credit card fraud suspects apprehended in California

Two individuals have been apprehended in Southern California on suspicion of credit card theft and identity fraud, with multiple victims affected.

The suspects have been identified as Veronika Kushnareva, 32, of San Jose, and Richard Kissinger, 40, of Walnut. According to the Costa Mesa Police Department, both individuals are believed to be responsible for the crimes.

The investigation was launched after a victim reported a missing credit card in late February. Authorities traced the card’s usage to a hotel in Newport Beach, where the suspects had allegedly used it.

Police swiftly took Kushnareva and Kissinger into custody upon arriving at the hotel. Further investigation revealed that the vehicle they were driving had also been reported stolen.

A follow-up search of the hotel room uncovered a significant amount of incriminating evidence, including business checks, a laptop, a printer, counterfeit currency, a sophisticated radio jammer, and numerous stolen credit cards. Kushnareva was arrested for possession of items used in credit card fraud, along with drug paraphernalia.

Kissinger was located in a nearby motel stairwell, where he was identified as the individual who had used the stolen credit card and was in possession of the stolen vehicle.

Authorities have determined that the credit card fraud scheme impacted individuals and businesses in Costa Mesa, Irvine, Newport Beach, Tustin, and Fontana.

Detective Sally Ortiz of the Costa Mesa Police Department has already contacted 15 victims and continues working to identify additional ones.

Common scams and their impact

Common scams use deception to steal personal information or money, often appearing legitimate to trick victims into sharing sensitive details or making unauthorized transactions.

Credit card fraud

Credit card fraud involves using a victim’s existing credit card account without authorization or stealing personal information to create a fraudulent account.

Victims of fraud may face unauthorized charges that lead to substantial bills. A significant increase in credit card balances can also pose a risk of damaging their credit scores.

Identity theft

This extends beyond credit card theft, involving identity fraud through stolen personal information such as name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. Fraudsters may use these details to open new accounts, take out loans, or engage in other unauthorized activities.

In essence, credit card fraud falls under the larger umbrella of identity theft, which involves a broader scope of fraudulent activities. Resolving it can be a more complicated and time-consuming process compared to addressing credit card fraud.

Ways identity theft happens

Identity thieves use various tactics to steal personal and financial information. Some of the most common methods include:

• Data breaches: Hackers steal customer data from businesses for fraud.

• ATM skimming: Devices capture card details and PINs at ATMs.

• Mail theft: Stolen mail provides criminals with personal data.

• Malware and spyware: Malicious software records sensitive information.

• Change of address fraud: Mail is rerouted to steal financial information.

• Dumpster diving: Thieves retrieve discarded documents with private details.

Identity theft protection

Identity theft is a rising threat, making proactive protection more important than ever. Safeguard personal information by following these key step.

1. Regularly review bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions.

2. Refrain from sharing personal information over the phone or online unless the communication was initiated.

3. Protect sensitive data by using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication.

4. Handle mail securely by avoiding unattended deliveries and using a lockable mailbox.

5. Shred documents that contain personal information before disposing of them.

Actions to take after identity theft

Those who suspect they have been victims of identity theft should act quickly to minimize potential damage.

• File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the local police department.

• Place a fraud alert or freeze on credit reports.

• Update passwords and security questions for online accounts.

• Notify relevant companies, such as credit card issuers or utility providers, if personal information was compromised.

• Maintain detailed records of all interactions and communications related to the theft.

Conclusion

The recent arrests of Kushnareva and Kissinger underscore the importance of staying vigilant against identity theft and credit card fraud.

Protecting personal information requires constant awareness, securing sensitive data, and promptly reporting any suspicious activity. Remaining informed about security measures and emerging threats significantly enhances the ability to prevent financial fraud.

Regularly reviewing financial statements, strengthening data protection practices, and maintaining caution can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of identity theft.

It really does open up the keys to the kingdom. It allows that person access to a lot of the information that you had on your phone

Eva Velasquez, President and CEO of Identity Theft Resource Center.

If identity theft occurs, taking swift and decisive action can help minimize damage and safeguard financial well-being. Reporting unusual activity and adopting preventive measures can greatly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to fraud.

For those affected, the Federal Trade Commission provides valuable resources, including a structured recovery plan and step-by-step guidance.

Staying knowledgeable about potential risks and proactive in security practices is essential to maintaining financial stability. Protecting against identity theft requires ongoing diligence and preventative actions to mitigate potential threats.