As the holiday season arrives, local police and cybersecurity experts are reminding shoppers to stay vigilant. While the holidays bring joy and celebration, they also create opportunities for theft, fraud and other crimes when people are distracted or rushed.
To help residents stay safe, the Beavercreek Police Crime Prevention Unit and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (staysafeonline.org) have compiled tips for both in-person and online shopping. Whether you head to crowded stores or browse digital deals from home, preparation and awareness are key.
In-Person Shopping Safety
Police encourage shoppers to take simple steps to protect themselves and their belongings:
- Keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed at all times.
- Park in well-lit areas and as close to your destination as possible.
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Store packages and valuables in the trunk or out of sight.
- Have your keys ready before returning to your vehicle.
- Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
- If possible, do not carry a purse or wallet.
- Use checks or credit cards instead of carrying large amounts of cash.
- If you must carry cash, keep it in your front pocket.
- Be cautious of strangers attempting to distract you. Do not roll down your window or open your car door for anyone you do not know.
Cyber Shopping Safety
With online shopping more popular than ever, cybersecurity officials advise taking precautions to prevent fraud and identity theft:
- Make sure all internet-connected devices have the latest software and app updates.
- Shop only on secure Wi-Fi or through a virtual private network (VPN), never on public networks.
- Avoid clicking on ads or email links; instead, go directly to a retailer’s website and ensure it starts with “https://.”
- Verify that online merchants are legitimate, as fake websites often surface during the holiday season.
- Use credit cards or trusted third-party payment services like PayPal for added protection.
- Do not save payment information in online accounts and avoid sharing unnecessary personal details.
- Regularly check bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions and set up alerts for purchases.
- Immediately report lost, stolen or misused credit cards to the issuer.
- Keep a secure record of your credit card numbers at home.
- Use strong, unique passwords for every online account.
By following these guidelines, shoppers can enjoy a safer and more secure holiday season—both in stores and online.