Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office urges vigilance during Identity Theft Awareness Week
Roanoke, Virginia – As part of Identity Theft Awareness Week, the Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office is calling on residents to be proactive in protecting their personal information from one of the nation’s fastest-growing crimes. Identity theft often occurs without dramatic signs, yet the consequences can be devastating and long-lasting.
In an age where technology is woven into daily life, the threat of identity theft has expanded to include phishing emails, fake phone calls, data breaches, and social media scams. Criminals are adapting quickly, and no one is immune—regardless of age, income level, or background.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that the best way to combat identity theft is by staying informed. “During Identity Theft Awareness Week, the Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office wants to remind our community that awareness is one of the strongest tools we have to prevent this crime.”
Community members are encouraged to monitor bank accounts regularly, use strong passwords, avoid suspicious emails, and be cautious when sharing personal information online or over the phone.
To assist the public, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is offering a range of free resources and events designed to help people understand identity theft, learn prevention strategies, and know what to do if their information is compromised. Residents can visit ftc.gov/IDTheftWeek for more information on upcoming events and tips on how to stay protected.
The Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office remains committed to raising awareness and promoting preventative action during this week and beyond, urging everyone to stay alert, stay protected.



