More and more people are braving malls and other marketplaces for holiday shopping. But authorities warn that theft is also likely to increase.
It’s not uncommon to make repeat trips to your vehicle while shopping, especially if you’ve an armful of presents. But Jananina Rager of the Eugene Police Department says you might be watched by crooks, eager to break into your car.
"If it absolutely comes to where you have to put things in your car, I would recommend: put the stuff in your car, get in your car, drive somewhere in the parking lot so it looks like you’re just arriving so that people aren’t seeing you put that stuff in and then walking away.”
Rager also warns against leaving your garage door opener in plain sight, which can lead to another heist…at home.
“They’ll break out the window, get the garage door opener…guess what else is in your car? Your registration with your address, now they’ve just given them access to know that you’re not home because you’re out shopping, and that gives them to go spend time themselves shopping at your house.”
Stolen documentation can also lead to identity theft and fraud committed in your name.
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