Tips for Staying Safe While Shopping
for the Christmas Holiday
With Christmas upon us, thieves will be looking for an
easy target. Shoppers everywhere will be crowding stores and check-out counters
in search of grabbing bargains and deals. Just as you may be shopping for a
gift, criminals are out shopping for your wallet, credit and debit cards, car
keys, and recently purchased items. What can you do to help protect yourself?
Start by shopping smart. Always be aware of your
surroundings and who is near you. Don't become so engrossed in your shopping
or check-out that you fail to see the person sliding up next to you or your
cart. Never leave your purse or purchased items unattended in a cart, on a
counter, or at a table...not even for "just a minute." Thieves will
look for easy targets and persons who may be inattentive to their belongings. That
open purse or wallet next to you while you are making your purchase is an
invitation for theft.
Be mindful of your personal space. If you are bumped
or someone just happens to slide up close to you, check your wallet or purse
and make sure that you have not become the victim of a thief.
Watch your cards! Credit, debit, charge cards are
easily "skimmed" by use of portable devices meant to quickly capture
your card information. Your information can be later transferred to a magnetic
strip on a different card and used for theft. The employee should be sliding your
card right in front of you. If there is a need to move to a different
register, go with them. Keep an eye on your accounts. Check your balances and
statements often. Watch for any unauthorized activity and report it immediately
if discovered.
Don't leave valuable items in your vehicle. Do your
best not to use your car as a storage compartment. Thieves will target persons
who load up their vehicle and then walk away. Keep any items out of plain
sight.
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