Answering the Door during the Holidays: Beware of Strangers

Criminals take advantage of the holiday season to prey on those who are unsuspecting and generous. Be careful when someone you do not know comes to your door during the holiday season.

The holiday season is a time when busy people can become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. The following tips from the Seattle Police Department Crime Prevention Program can help you be more careful, prepared and aware during the holiday season.

    * Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.

    * It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved.

    * Ask for their identification, and find out how the donated funds will be used. If you are not satisfied, do not donate.

    * Donate to a recognized charitable organization.

Source: Seattle Crime Prevention Pamphlet ©2001