KPLC 7 News, Lake Charles, LouisianaCell Phones Used In Criminal Activities

Cell Phones Used In Criminal Activities

August 18, 2004
Reported by Marty Briggs

Cell phones have made it easy to communicate, but did you know that criminals are now using those phone's to carry out crime?  Criminals are able to steal valuable information like personal ID numbers and credit card information, and that's all it takes to ruin your good name.

Many people use cell phones in their daily activities, and sometimes, those activities aren't entirely legal.  "They're commonly used for drug transactions to communicate with the buyers and sellers. The next popular way now is the theft of identity, which is an up-and-coming crime," says Sgt. Joey Williams with the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office.  

Cell phone's are helping crooks steal valuable information without you even being aware of it.  "They'll take a picture of your credit card as you're trying to use it, listen to you talk on your cell phone, listen to you mention numbers like your social security number.  They do a lot of damage," says Williams.  

With one snap, criminals can capture your credit card information.  Williams said even though the picture may look fuzzy on the phone, it won't after it's uploaded on a computer screen.  "We've heard that they've used video programs to enhance the pictures, which they have out there.  Police have used this technology to enhance a license plate on a car, and it's stuff you can buy in the open market, over the internet."  

Williams urges you to be aware of one simple rule:  always be aware of your surroundings, especially when completing sensitive transactions.  And always be careful when around people using a cell phone.  "Every time you arrest a criminal, the first thing want to do is find out if he has a cell phone.  It's got a wealth of information for us on it.  We can get a search warrant to seize it and a subpoena to take the information off of it.  It may not be his on there.  A lot of times we're finding other people's information," says Williams.  

Williams also offers these tips:  notice who is standing around when you're at an ATM.  Keep your credit card in your wallet or purse until you're ready to use it.  When you hand your credit card to a cashier, give it to them face down, covering your signature with your hand.  If someone is standing a little too close while using a cell phone, politely ask him or her to move back and provide more room between the two of you.