Holiday Shoppers Beware- Both in Stores & Online

I strongly encourage you to be safe shopping this holiday season. By  taking some extra precautions you can keep yourself and your personal information safe.

It's unfortunate that we live in a society where not everyone is out spreading holiday cheer. With that in mind, please be vigilant and alert as you venture out both to stores and online.

Here are some tips to remember while you are out shopping:

1-Avoid concentrating so hard on shopping that you fail to keep track of your surroundings, or others near you or your personal property.

2-Be alert in crowded places. Pickpockets favorite places are revolving doors, jammed aisles, elevators, and at public transportation bus stops – make sure your pocketbook/wallet is on your person at all times.

3-Grip your carried items firmly and avoid leaving them attended.

4-Carry the day’s most expensive purchases closest to your body, and don’t carry so much you lose the ability to react quickly.

5-Do not leave purchased items visible in the car - leave them in the trunk.

6-Credit cards offer convenience and security, however, keep track of all cards and keep receipts to compare to your monthly statement.

7-Shop with friends or relatives if possible; there is safety in numbers.

8-While shopping in the evening hours may be less crowded, there are also additional potential risks involved – park in areas with adequate lighting, again shop with someone rather than alone.

9-When returning to your vehicle, carry your keys in your hand and be ready to unlock the door and enter as quickly as possible. As you approach your vehicle, scan the area, glance underneath, and take a quick look inside before entering.

Shopping Online? Please be wary of crime there as well!

1-Before you begin shopping online, secure your computer by updating your security software. Every computer should have antivirus software, antispyware, and anti-spam software, as well as a good firewall. Firewalls and antivirus software are the first line of defense. They help keep your computer safe and secure.

2-Keep your personal information private and your password secure. Don’t respond to any requests to “verify” your password or credit card information unless you initiated the contact. Legitimate businesses won’t ask for this information.

3-Use secure websites for purchases. Look for the icon of a locked
padlock at the bottom of the screen or “https” in the URL address.
They indicate that you are dealing with a secure website.

4-Donate to charities online only if you have investigated the charity. Be sure that the charity’s site is secure or make your donation through the mail.

And above all- beware of bargains from unfamiliar companies. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

I would like to extend the very best this Holiday Season from our family to yours!