Holiday Shopping Safety Tips in Atlanta
As the festive lights twinkle and excitement fills the air, residents of Atlanta are buzzing with anticipation for the holiday shopping season! But amidst all the joy, there are some not-so-jolly characters out there lurking around, ready to ruin the fun. So, before you start placing orders online, let’s chat about how to keep your packages safe and sound right at home!
Package Theft: Prevention is Key!
According to Officer A. Fix from the Atlanta Police Department, package thefts surely ramp up during the holidays. “We see many thieves around this time who want to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers,” he warns. So, what can you do to protect your deliveries? Well, a fantastic idea is to invest in a porch lockbox!
Yes, you heard that right! These nifty little gadgets are specially designed to keep your packages safe. Some allow delivery drivers to drop off smaller items through a slot without needing a key, while others might require a special code. It’s worth doing a bit of research to find the right one for you!
Think Outside the Box with Amazon Lockers
Another option to consider is using Amazon Lockers. Instead of having parcels left on your doorstep, you can select a nearby locker for delivery. This way, you can grab your package at your convenience without worrying about crooks lingering around. “When the package arrives, you’ll get a notification on your phone,” explains Officer Fix. Just head over to the locker, enter the code they send you, and voila!
Keep a Watchful Eye
If you can’t be home during delivery, perhaps ask a neighbor, friend, or family member to keep an eye out. And while you’re at it, why not consider installing a video doorbell? They’re not just cool gadgets; they can actually deter thieves too! “When someone rings your doorbell, you can see who it is and even talk to them through your device,” Officer Fix shares. This two-way audio is super handy and could just scare off any would-be porch pirates!
Securing Your Space
So, what about your home security? Officer Fix suggests making it obvious that you have a security system in place. “When potential thieves see a security camera outside your home, they might think twice about targeting your packages,” he adds. Simple signs indicating you have an alarm system, combined with visible cameras, will definitely act as a deterrent!
Be Proactive with Tracking
One more crucial tip from Officer Fix? Keep a close eye on your package tracking. The quicker you can collect your deliveries, the less chance there is for them to go missing. And if the unfortunate happens and you do fall victim to package theft, knowing where to report it promptly is essential.
Steering Clear of Online Shopping Scams
But it’s not just porch pirates you need to worry about; there’s also the tricky world of online shopping scams. According to Jen Easterly, director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, consumers must really consider where they click! “You’re going to see tons of emails with unbelievable deals. But think before you engage because scammers want to sneak in and get your information!”
Stay Informed This Holiday Season!
It’s alarming to know that in 2022 alone, over 12,000 individuals reported being victims of holiday shopping scams, leading to nearly $73 million in losses! This holiday season, stay savvy and alert.
So let’s enjoy the festive spirit while being smart and secure! Following these handy tips can keep your holiday season merry and bright without any unwanted surprises.
