Full Notification

Our San Mateo Police family wishes you and yours a happy holiday week as we give thanks for our families, friends, and unwavering support from our San Mateo community. As Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holiday shopping kicks off, we wanted to take a moment to remind you of a few safety tips to better protect yourself from becoming a target of criminals who are also holiday “shopping.”  
 
When You’re Shopping at Local Stores

• Park Safe- Park in well-lit areas at night or in the daytime. Park under a light that will be illuminated if you plan to exit the store after dark.
• Lock Your Doors- Even if you believe there is nothing of value in your vehicle.
• Hide Your Valuables! Theft from vehicles is often a crime of opportunity. Locking your doors and not leaving valuables visible in your vehicle are the two easiest ways to protect it and its contents.
• By the Numbers-  Keep a close eye and a grip on packages and personal items like purses and wallets. Program the emergency numbers for your creditors into your phone in case a credit card is lost or stolen.
• Stay Vigilant-  Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. As we always say, “If you see something, say something.” Report anything suspicious to SMPD right away via 911, or 650-522-7700

 
When You’re Shopping Online

• “Look for the S”. When shopping online make sure the website begins with https://, which indicates a secure consumer site.
• Protect Your Passwords. Don’t let your browser save your passwords and credit card information on retail or banking sites, especially when using a public computer
• Log Off. When shopping at an online retailer, log off when you’re done, especially if your using public WiFi, such as your local coffee shop.
• Plan Your Shipping.  Have items delivered to your doorstep on days when your home to pick them up.

 
For more information on Holiday Shopping check out the Federal Trade Commission site https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2012/12/happy-holiday-shopping.
  
Do Your Part to Make our Community Safer
As always, we count on our community members to be SMPD’s “extra eyes and ears.”  Please report ANY suspicious activity to SMPD right away via 911, or 650-522-7700.