As the final shopping rush before Christmas arrives, followed by the after-Christmas sales and return storm, grinches, a/k/a criminals, see opportunity.
Authorities in neighboring areas have reported “The Distract and Dash” incident. A seemingly innocent distraction, such as a fall by one person, results in someone being distracted long enough for a second person to grab a purse or reach into a cash register. Authorities advise people to keep their belongings secured at all times.
The National Crime Prevention Council has the following recommendations for shoppers:
Keep careful track of your bags and other packages. If you leave something behind, it could get stolen or discarded.
Tell a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or package.
Be sure not to buy more than you can carry. If your packages are making it hard for you to walk upright or see, ask a store employee to help you carry them to your car.
Check receipts to see whether your full credit card number appears. If a receipt has your full number on it, take a pen and thoroughly scratch it out.
Double check that you have your credit cards and check book after you pay for your items.