ATM CRIME

Automated teller machines are handy to have around when you're spending it up at the mall and don't want to max out your credit cards. But while ATMs make it easier for you to get to your money, they provide the same service for thieves.

To protect yourself, handle your bank card with the same prudence you would cash or credit cards and keep it in a safe place. Memorize your PIN code so you won't have to write it on your card or a piece of paper, and carry it in your purse or wallet. And keep your PIN to yourself -- if others are nearby waiting to use the ATM, don't let them see which buttons you press.

More ATM advice:

Choose a bank with an ATM located in a highly visible, well-lighted area.

If you must withdraw money from an ATM after dark, have someone accompany you. Also, try not to make large cash withdrawals.

If you see anyone loitering near the machine who looks or acts suspicious, walk away.

Minimize time spent at the ATM by having your card in your hand and resisting the temptation to count the money after it has been dispensed.

While using an ATM, look around from time to time to and be aware of what's going on around you. If anything suspicious happens, immediately cancel your transaction and leave.

Never leave your receipt in the machine. Also, keep your receipts so you can check them against your monthly bank statements.

Holiday Crime Prevention
Shopping

The holiday season is a time when busy people can become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. The following tips from the Elizabethton Police Department can help you be more careful, prepared and aware during the holiday season.

  • Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
  • Dress casually and comfortably.
  • Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
  • Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
  • Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
  • Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
  • Keep cash in your front pocket.
  • Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
  • Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
  • Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
  • Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
  • Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, "con-artists" may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

Children

  • If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.
  • Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.
  • Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.
  • Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.
  • Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.
  • Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security. Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.

At Home

  • Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
  • When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
  • Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.
  • Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
  • Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.
  • When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday display, make sure doors and passageways are clear inside your home.
  • Be sure your Christmas tree is mounted on a sturdy base so children, elderly persons or family pets cannot pull it over on themselves.
  • If you use lights on your Christmas tree ensure the wiring is not damaged or frayed. Frayed or damaged wiring can cause a fire.
  • Place your Christmas tree in water or wet sand to keep it green.
  • Never place wrapping paper in your fireplace.

Strangers at Your Door

  • Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
  • It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved.
  • Ask for their identification, and find out how the donated funds will be used.
  • If you are not satisfied, do not donate.
  • Donate to a recognized charitable organization.

Hosting a Party

  • Have non-alcoholic beverages available for party guests.
  • Find alternative transportation for intoxicated guests.
  • Arrange for an official designated driver for your party who will not drink at all.

Attending a Party

  • Have something to eat before consuming alcoholic beverages.
  • Eat high protein foods that will stay in your stomach longer and slow the absorption of alcohol into your system.
  • Remember only time will eliminate the alcohol from your body.
  • Know your safe limit.
  • Never drink and drive.

HOLIDAY SCAMS & CONS

Beware of scams like these:

  • Fake credit unions. Con-artists place ads in newspapers for non-existent credit unions offering hassle-free loans if you wire them a fee of $1,500. Or they have you fill out a loan application and then steal your personal information.
  • Debt or mortgage elimination offers. The perpetrators of these schemes offer to take advantage of "loopholes in the system" that will eliminate your entire mortgage for an up-front fee. Don't believe it. There are no loopholes.
  • Phony lotteries. Scam-artists will notify you that you've won a lottery, but you must send them some money to receive your winnings. Sad fact: there is no lottery and you never receive a prize.

    A few simple precautions can help keep you from being Grinched:

    • Never give personal information over the telephone, mail, or Internet unless you initiated the contact.
    • Shred credit card receipts and old financial statements.
    • Protect PIN numbers and passwords.
    • Carry a minimum amount of identifying information.
    • Do not wire money to strangers.