The RCMP is reminding consumers about safe shopping practices to avoid getting “Scrooged” this holiday season.
Cpl. Jennifer Clarke says to make sure vehicles are locked and parked in populated, well lit areas, with items stashed out of sight. This will reduce the temptation for break-ins.
Clarke also says shoppers shouldn’t rush to leave busy stores.
“Cover up your password when you are entering it into a machine, or that type of thing, and make sure you take the time to put all your cards and things away before you leave the store regardless of how long that line-up is, just to make sure that you have everything you came in there with,” she says.
As for online shopping; having separate passwords for your phone and credit cards, and password protecting your home WiFi network can prevent criminals from gaining access to your accounts.
Buying a prepaid credit card for holiday purchases is also more secure, and it can help keep you on budget.
Clarke says there is usually a rise in email scams this time of year.
“If you look very closely at those emails you will see errors in spelling, and errors in the way the logos and things are printed. So that usually is a good reason to help you know that they are fake,” she says.
The Anti-Fraud Centre website says consumers should not open unsolicited emails. Scams can be reported to www.AntiFraudCentre.ca.
Story by Erin MacInnis
Twitter: @ErinEMacInnis
