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Campus & State
Identity theft is crime on the rise
Officials believe identity theft has become an increasing problem in Central Minnesota. Anyone can become an identity thief by obtaining a person's personal information given on an old check or other forms of identity carried in people's wallets and purses. Forgery can also be a type of identity theft when people pretend to be someone else and can steal from them for long periods of time.
Identity theft complaints have risen in St. Cloud over the last three years. Only one case was reported in 2000 as opposed to the 10 complaints in 2002. Ten complaints have already been filed this year alone. Although on the rise, Minnesota ranks 29th nationally for identity fraud.
Sartell resident Richard Plombon recently became a victim of identity theft. He received bills for over $40,000 worth of furniture, generators and jewelry. Despite the thief being caught, Plombon now has bad credit and cannot get a credit card or buy a house.
Schools to outlaw picture phones
High school administrators have become increasingly worried about the number of picture phones showing up in schools and believe they could lead to disruptive behavior. They fear the phones might cause cheating on tests by photographing questions or an invasion of privacy where students secretly take photos of others.
Many high schools already outlaw cell phone use of any kind but officials realize the popular trend will be hard to contain and control.
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