Hello Lauderhill Family!
We are now in November and soon we will be heading into the holiday season! Over the past two years, some of us have had to adapt and change habits when it comes to shopping. Specifically, our increased use of online shopping offers anything and everything from the comfort of our home. The delivery to our home is having it delivered to our door is a time-saver, but with that comes the dangers from those that want to advantage of this.
Before searching and browsing, you need to take safety precautions. The same way you make sure your front door is locked, you need to make sure your computer and online activities are secured. I have tips that I would like to share with you from the National Crime Prevention Council to help you have a safe online shopping experience.
- Install or update your security software. Everyone’s computer should have anti-virus, anti-spyware, and anti-spam software, as well as a good firewall.
- Keep your personal information private and your password secure. Do not respond to requests to “verify” your password or credit card 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 an 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.
- To avoid purchasing counterfeit products, carefully examine the products you want to buy for signs of missing information (manufacturing information, warranty, product codes, etc.), broken or missing safety seals, different or incomplete packaging, and subtle or obvious changes to a company logo.
- Remember to check your credit card statements regularly for any suspicious transactions.
For more consumer safety tips, check out the National Crime Prevention Council's website.
Now, once you have made your purchase, the next issue to deal with is the delivery. Nationally, we have seen a rise in package theft by “Porch Pirates.” So, what can you do to help thwart these scallywags? Here are more safety tips!
- Pick up your packages promptly after delivery.
- Try to arrange for a delivery date and time when you will be home.
- Consider having the package delivered to a relative.
- Have the package picked up by a trusted neighbor.
- Check to see if the delivery company has secure drop-off locations.
- Sign up for delivery alerts.
- Install security or doorbell cameras to help deter criminal activity.