Uptick in Identity Fraud Cases.

The Windsor Police Service is alerting residents about a sharp increase in identity fraud in our community and is reminding everyone to take steps to protect their personal and financial information.

So far this year, Windsor Police have received 40 reports of identity fraud, compared to 17 reports during the same period last year – an increase of about 135%.

This increase follows an alarming trend. In 2024, Windsor Police received 158 reports of identity fraud. In 2025, that number rose to 269 reports, an increase of about 70%.

To help protect yourself from identity fraud:

• Don’t leave purses, wallets, or personal documents in your vehicle, especially overnight.

• Never share financial cards, personal information, or ID with anyone who comes to your door.

• Consider signing up for credit monitoring through Equifax or TransUnion.

• Turn on two-step verification for online accounts that involve money or personal information.

• Use trusted businesses for financial and tax services.

• Keep important documents and financial cards in a safe place.

• Shred paperwork that contains personal or financial information before throwing it out.

If you think you may be a victim of identity fraud or identity theft, contact the Windsor Police Financial Crimes Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4330, and contact your bank or credit card provider right away. For anonymous tip leads, you can click on ‘submit a tip’ on this website or call us at the Windsor and Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519 258 8477.