You may not be thinking about criminals this Christmas season, but make no mistake, they're thinking about you. The holidays present big opportunities for car prowlers, purse snatchers and many other types of criminals including CYBER criminals.  Recently it has been noted that Starbucks gift cards can be easily duplicated, other cards may also be susceptible.  Another potential risk is at the other end of online Christmas purchases, be very careful of online scams and counterfeit products and services!

The most important thing while out shopping is to pay attention to your surroundings and potential risks, A few simple rules can go a long way. Pay attention to who's around you when going to your car after shopping and don't leave packages visible

Car prowlers will hang out in parking lots looking for people leaving purses and fresh purchases in their vehicles; they’ll also grab backpacks, iPads, or gym bags, and anything they can see.

The criminals aren't just hanging out at the mall. They could be cruising your street. If you're shopping online, make a plan for someone to accept the delivered packages, some thieves follow around delivery trucks hoping for a score. If they grab a box and don't care for the contents, they might trash it.

Make sure your home is well lit; crooks are also looking for people out shopping, at work or holiday parties so they can clear out what’s under the tree

Have a safe and happy holiday season this year