It truly is the “most wonderful time of the year,” but don’t forget to be safety conscious while shopping for those special gifts. People are busy and in a hurry and might not be thinking about the dangers. It is the favorite time of year for criminals who like to take advantage of their victims being stressed and preoccupied. Do be careful not to let your guard down. For your own safety, stay aware.
Holiday shopping hazards everyone should watch for:
It can be pick-pocketing, shoplifting, credit card fraud or other petty crimes, so know how to minimize risk and protect yourself. The list of tips below is intended to help you stay safe and enjoy a wonderful Christmas. And don’t forget to share them with friends and family.
1) Don’t carry a lot of cash
Stealing someone’s debit or credit card takes extra work. That’s why cash is so attractive to thieves. If cash is all you’ve got, keep it in a wallet and in your front pocket.
2) Dress down
Some people dress like they are on their way out to the fanciest of dinners when they go shopping. Dress comfortably and leave the jewelry at home. This will take a thief’s focus off you.
3) Avoid using ATMs
ATMs are dangerous all the time, but particularly during the holidays. Try and choose one or the other – cards or cash. Using ATMs can put you in a vulnerable position, not to mention the risk of card skimmers.
4) Don’t shop alone (especially at night)
Shopping with someone is always safer. If you must shop alone, please do so during the day, or park in a well-lit area close to the mall entrance. Many shopping centers and malls have security personnel that are happy to see you to your car as well.
5) Walk with your head high
Nowadays, everyone’s heads are down staring at their phones. Whatever the reason for the head being down, lift it up! This will help you have a better awareness of your surroundings and keep you safer.
6) Keep your purse close
If you’re carrying a purse, keep it in front of you, not behind you. It’s always best not to put it in your shopping cart. If you must, make sure the purse is closest to you, zipped or buttoned closed and attached to the cart itself. Use a carabiner or the buckle straps found on most carts.
7) Notify your bank immediately if you are missing a credit card
If your debit or credit card has gone missing, notify your bank before doing any more shopping. Given that it’s the holiday season, chances are it’s lost in your purse or winter jacket pocket. But, if it’s a worst-case scenario, you want to minimize the damage as much as possible (if not completely).
8) Place purchases in the trunk
Leaving your purchases visible anywhere inside the car can increase your risk of theft. To be safe, put as many of your purchases as possible in the trunk. If they won’t all fit in the trunk and you must leave them inside the car, cover them. That way criminals are less likely to entertain the thought of breaking into your car.
9) Have your keys out before walking to your car
While still in the store or mall, find and hold your keys before you leave. Looking down and fumbling through your purse makes you an easy and distracted target for someone trying to commit a crime with minimal resistance.
10) Lock car doors the moment you get inside
Once you’ve finished your shopping and made it back to your car safely, lock your car doors. Yes – even before you buckle up and put the keys in the ignition.