The National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) reminds holiday shoppers to keep safety in mind as they hunt for those last-minute bargains.

The organization best known for its con McGruff the Crime Dog has tips to help you shop safely while getting those great holiday bargains.

Shopping in stores:

• Do not buy more than you can carry.  Plan ahead by taking a friend with you or 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.  Start a file folder to keep all receipts together and to help you verify credit card or bank statements as they come in.
• Consider alternate options to pay for your merchandise, such as one time or multiuse disposable credit cards or money orders, at online stores and auction sites.
• 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 mass transit.

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 care 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 with small children:

• If you are shopping with small children, make a plan in case you are separated from each other.  Select a meeting place.
• Teach them to know they can ask mall personnel or store security employees if they need help.

Shopping on-line:

•  Before surfing the Internet, secure your personal computers by updating your security software.  Everyone’s computer should have anti-virus, anti-spyware, and anti-spam 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 care 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.
• DO NOT USE YOUR DEBIT CARD FOR ONLINE PURCHASES

Thanks to our Friends at Silvercreek Tribune for providing this valuable information!