The time before the holidays means crowds of people looking for their next deal. However, thieves in public spaces are also on the prowl for their next victim. To help keep the holidays merry and safe, Wallkill Valley Federal Savings & Loan shared several theft-thwarting tips:
- Carry less cash.
- Wait to bring your debit/credit card out until the last minute.
- Consider carrying your debit/credit cards in radio-frequency identification-blocking wallets or sleeves to protect them from cloning.
- Keep your wallet or purse close and avoid backpacks and open style bags.
- Store packages in the car's trunk to avoid break-ins.
- When walking through a parking garage, stay focused. Thieves often target distracted shoppers.
When shopping online, be sure to take the following precautions:
- Don’t brag about a gift on social media. Thieves can stalk these feeds and are alerted to potentially valuable items.
- When shopping online, be sure to shop only from secure vendors. Websites with an https:// are encrypted for better protection.
- Try to schedule package deliveries for when you'll be home. If that isn’t possible, have them delivered to your office or opt for in-store pickup.
- Try to avoid putting your beautiful tree and packages in front of a large bay window. Despite being pretty, it can lure potential thieves.
It also feels good to give donations around the holidays, but it's important to make sure you're giving to a legitimate cause. If you have any reservations about online or door-to-door solicitations, save your donation until you have the time to check out the charity. Tools like Charity Navigator are a big help in determining an organization's authenticity.
For more information on how to keep your hard earned money safe, visit Wallkill Valley Federal Savings & Loan's website.