Apple Valley Police Provide Holiday Shopping Safety Tips

With each holiday season brings a sharp increase in shopping, both online and in person at local retailers. This time of year can also bring with it an increase in thefts.

In an effort to keep residents from becoming the victim of theft, the Apple Valley Police Department has compiled a list of practical steps to take to keep the burglars and thieves away.

• Don’t buy more than you can carry. You want to keep your hands free when going
to your vehicle so that you are not an easy target for a thief. If possible, ask a store
employee to help you carry your packages to the car.
• Save all receipts. Print and save all confirmations from your online purchases. The
receipts will help you verify credit card or bank statements as they come in.
• Consider alternate options to pay for your merchandise, such as onetime or multiuse
disposable credit cards or money orders, at online stores and auction sites. This is a
way to avoid anyone gaining your credit card information.
• Wait until asked before taking out your credit card or checkbook. An enterprising
thief would love to shoulder surf to get your account information.
• Tell a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or
package. The same applies if you are using public transportation.
Walking to and from your car
• Deter pickpockets. Carry your purse close to your body or your wallet inside a coat
or front trouser pocket.
• Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. Check the back seat and
around the car before getting in.
• Do not leave packages visible in your car windows. Lock them in the trunk or, if
possible, take them directly home.
Shopping Online
• Before surfing the Internet, secure your personal computers by updating your
security software. Everyone’s computer should have anti-virus, anti-spyware, and antispam
software, as well as a good firewall installed.
• Keep your personal information private and your password secure. Do not respond
to requests to “verify” your password or credit card information unless you initiated the
contact. Legitimate businesses will not contact you in this manner.
• Beware of “bargains” from companies with whom you are unfamiliar—if it sounds too
good to be true, it probably is!
• 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.
• Shop with companies you know and trust. Check for background information if you
plan to buy from a new or unfamiliar company.

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