HOLIDAY SHOPPING: A SAFETY GUIDE

The holiday season is a time for spreading joy, celebrating life, and unfortunately, a significant spike in theft…

Crowded malls, packed parking lots and an increase in online shopping. This time of year, criminals take advantage of the distractions and chaos that come with the holiday rush and falling victim is easier than you might think.

Whether you're shopping for gifts or running seasonal errands, here are a few proactive steps that can help keep you, your belongings, your home, and your purchases safe from the Grinches of the world this holiday season.

This holiday shopping safety guide outlines practical strategies to prevent theft during the holiday rush.

WHAT  TYPE OF CRIMES INCREASE AROUND THE HOLIDAY SEASON?

Retail theft, pickpocketing, package theft, vehicle break-ins, and online scams all experience a major uptick during the holiday season. Criminals know shoppers are carrying more cash, leaving purchases in cars, and dealing with distractions. Awareness is your first line of defense.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF WHILE SHOPPING: IN STORE

STAY ALERT IN CROWDED AREAS

• Pickpockets rely on distraction.

• Keep your attention on your surroundings, especially in busy aisles, checkout lines, and entrances.

SECURE YOUR BELONGINGS

• Use a crossbody bag or zippered purse.

• Keep wallets in front pockets, not back pockets.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

DON'T FLASH EXPENSIVE PURCHASES

• Buying high-end electronics or jewelry? Place them deeper in your cart or cover the bag.

WATCH YOUR CARDS

• Shield your PIN at checkout and monitor for skimming devices on ATMs or payment terminals.

• Buying from small business or shopping locally? QR Codes are common, but can also be dangerous if used by bad actors. Only scan from trusted sources!

PARKING LOTS & VEHICLES SAFTEY: PRIME TARGETS FOR THEFT

PARK SMART

• Choose well-lit, high-visibility areas near security cameras or store entrances.

HIDE YOUR PURCHASES

• Never leave bags visible!

• Lock items in the trunk.

• Use a cargo cover if you drive an SUV.

• Move items before you arrive at the next store, so no one watches you stow valuables.

LOCK DOORS

• Even during quick stops

• Vehicle theft often takes less than 10 seconds.

KEEP KEYS AND FOBS SECURED

• Relay attacks and signal boosters can hack keyless vehicles.

• Consider a signal-blocking pouch if you drive a model that requires such.

HOW TO PREVENT PACKAGE THEFT: AT HOME

USE ALTERNATIVE DELIVERY OPTIONS

• Amazon lockers, UPS, USPS or in-store pickup

• Delivery to workplace (if allowed)

• Request signature on arrival

INSTALL VISIBLE DETERRENTS

• Cameras, doorbells, and motion lights dramatically reduce porch theft risk.

SCHEDULE DELIVERIES WHEN YOU'RE HOME

• Many carriers allow flexible delivery windows or hold-at-location services.

ONLINE SHOPPING SCAMS: WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

SHOP ONLY TRUSTED WEBSITES

• Look for HTTPS, verified reviews, and established retailers. Be wary of sites offering unrealistic deals.

AVOID CLICKING UNKNOWN LINKS

• Phishing emails often mimic major retailers during the holidays. Text message scams are becoming more and more common as well. If it doesn't seem right, DON'T CLICK IT!

USE CREDIT CARDS, NOT DEBIT CARDS

• Credit card companies often offer better fraud protection and can flag different types of rogue spending behaviors quickly.

MONITOR YOUR ACCOUNTS

• Set alerts for transactions over a certain amount.

• The faster you notice suspicious activity the better.

PROTECTING YOUR HOME: SIMPLE STEPS

DISCRETION AND MODESTY

• Keep curtains closed so gifts aren’t visible.

• Use timers for lights if you'll be out after dark.

• Avoid posting shopping sprees or gift hauls on social media, thieves often monitor public posts.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Holiday shopping should be enjoyable, not stressful. By staying aware, taking

preventive steps, and securing your purchases and personal information, you can dramatically reduce your risk of becoming a victim of theft.