Big bargains and big crowds usually make up the holiday shopping season. But lurking beneath it all are criminals hoping to scam you out of your money.
Almost as big as their logo, the headline on the TJ-Maxx website reads, “Important Customer Alert.”
It’s a reminder to customers of the information breach, where thousands of credit card numbers were stolen and left many customers were left with hefty credit card bills.
"The thieves are out there,” said Michaele Pena, director of the Consumer Credit Counseling division of Charleston’s Family Services organization. “They know that folks are out shopping, there are a lot of activities."
Whether online or at the mall, the dangers are always there and it all starts at the cash register, said Pena.
"People aren't paying attention when they check out at the register, leave the card behind, set it down for a moment," Pena said.
But she adds it’s just the first step to get what thieves want. Next, they'll use your credit card, which is why Pena said customers need keep track of what they buy.
“You must read your statement each month, double check to make sure if you see an item that's been charged, even if it's just for a few dollars, if you don't recognize who it is, challenge it," Pena said.
The dangers don't end when you leave the store, because thieves will often keep track of you, often targeting you for your wallet or shopping bags.
"They may be following you through the mall, watching how you're shopping and to see if you're an easy target to steal your purse or lift some type of item off you," she said.
Pena said thieves stake out malls and know which areas aren't monitored by security. If you don't feel safe, she said, you can always ask mall security to take you to your car.
If there's no security around, Pena says customers should park in well-lit areas or bring buddies so they’re not alone.
Read full story [live5news.com]
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