The holiday season is always a special time of the year with everyone busy shopping and dining out. Wallets are being stolen while victims are eating at local restaurants. Leaving your purse slung over your chair as you dine is making you an easy target. Shortly after a wallet is stolen, thieves are using your credit cards to make large purchases at big box stores such as Target, Best Buy, and other commercial establishments.
Every year, thousands of dollars is being stolen by means of Identity Theft. And this crime is increasing. Stealing your personal information either from the internet or at a restaurant where your purse is vulnerable is easy for thieves. But, being aware of your surroundings and paying attention, will reduce your risk of becoming a victim.
Credit and debit cards are the items needed for a shopping spree on your dime. The usual purchases are gift cards which are untraceable. Retail businesses do not request ID’s to valid credit card ownership due to their corporate policies.
While in public, please follow these crime prevention tips:
• Always keep your purse/backpack zipped and on your lap. If possible, use a cross over purse which can still be worn while sitting.
• Use a purse hanger clipped on the inside of the table, to prevent thefts.
• When shopping, use a carbineer or child restraint to clip your purse to the shopping cart.
• Beware of other shoppers who may distract you while their accomplice steals your wallet/purse.
• Create alerts with your bank debit and credit cards which notify you when large purchases are being made. Contact your bank and Credit Card Company immediately to file a report.
For additional information regarding Crime Prevention and Neighborhood Watch, please contact Jean-Marie Maroshek of the Crime Analysis and Prevention Unit at (805) 583-6276 or [email protected]
