Friday, November 29, 2024 | View in browser
Evanston Police Offer Crime Prevention Tips for the Holiday Season
EVANSTON, IL - The holiday shopping season is under way, and the Evanston Police Department encourages residents to remain vigilant and take precautions to prevent criminal activity associated with the holiday season. To ensure a safe and joyous season, follow these tips to prevent being a victim of these crimes.
1. Prevent Stolen Packages
Package theft increases significantly during the holidays. To keep your deliveries safe:
- Opt for secure delivery options, such as requiring a signature or scheduling deliveries when you’re home.
- Use a lockbox or Amazon Hub Locker if available.
- Consider having packages delivered to your workplace or a trusted neighbor who is home during the day.
- Monitor your deliveries with tracking notifications and retrieve packages promptly.
2. Safeguard Your Financial Information
Be cautious when handling credit card information, especially with an uptick in scams during the holidays:
- Never share your credit card details with unsolicited callers, texts, emails, or individuals claiming to represent charities.
- Verify the legitimacy of organizations before making donations. Research charities through trusted sources or contact them directly.
- Look out for phishing scams by avoiding links in unexpected emails or texts. Legitimate entities will not ask for sensitive information in this way.
3. Conduct Internet Sales Safely
If you’re buying or selling items online, prioritize safety by meeting in public spaces:
- The Evanston Police Department offers a designated safe transaction location in the public foyer of the police department, located at 1454 Elmwood Avenue.
- This area is monitored and provides a secure environment for in-person exchanges.
- Avoid meeting buyers or sellers in secluded areas.
Even though these crimes spike during the holiday season, you can use them year-round to help reduce the risk of theft, fraud, and other crimes. The Evanston Police Department is committed to keeping our community safe and encourages everyone to stay alert and prioritize security.
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Media Relations: Commander Ryan Glew
rglew@cityofevanston.org
Phone: 847-866-5026
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