10 Burglary Prevention Tips

1. Keep all doors and windows closed and securely fastened. An open window or door is an invitation for burglars. Thieves can easily spot weak locks that may be forced open. Doors should have deadbolt locks with a one-inch throw and reinforced strike plates with three-inch screws. All windows should be fitted with locks.

2. Secure sliding glass doors by placing a metal rod or piece of plywood in the track and installing vertical bolts. These measures will help prevent burglars from forcing the door open or lifting it off the track.

3. Always lock the door to an attached garage. Do not rely solely on your automatic garage door opener for security.

4. Create the illusion that you are home by using lights on timers, radios, and TVs. Making your residence appear occupied, even when no one is home, will deter criminals.

5. Keep the perimeter of your home well-lit. Installing low-voltage outdoor lighting is a cost-effective way to discourage intruders while highlighting your house.

6. Never leave clues that indicate you are away on a trip. Have a trusted neighbor collect your mail and newspapers while you are gone, preventing delivered items from accumulating. You can also ask a neighbor to park in your driveway to suggest that you are present.

7. Keep some shades, blinds, and curtains open to maintain a normal, everyday appearance in your residence.

8. Never leave a message on your telephone answering machine stating that you are away from home. A message indicating when you will return leaves your home vulnerable.

9. Keep shrubbery trimmed away from entrances and walkways. While large, ornate hedges may be attractive, they also provide hiding places for burglars, who can break in through a window or door in just a minute.

10. Organize a community watch program to protect your neighborhood. Through a Neighborhood Watch Organization, neighbors can agree to monitor each other’s property and report suspicious activities to the Rusk Police Department. An alert community is a safe community.

Fighting Back Against Identity Theft

Common Ways ID Theft Happens:

• Dumpster Diving:** Thieves search through trash to find documents such as bills or any other paper containing your personal information
• Skimming:** They use a special device to steal credit or debit card numbers while processing your card
• Phishing:** Scammers impersonate financial institutions or companies, sending spam emails or displaying pop-up messages to trick you into revealing your personal information.
• Changing Your Address:** They fill out a “change of address” form to divert your billing statements to a different location
• Traditional Stealing:** This includes stealing wallets, purses, and mail, which may contain bank statements, credit card offers, or personal checks. It can also involve stealing personnel records from employers or bribing employees with access to sensitive information.

Deter:
Identity theft is a serious crime. It happens when someone steals your personal information and uses it to commit fraud or other illegal activities without your knowledge. Identity theft can cost you both time and money. It can damage your credit and tarnish your reputation.

• Deter identity thieves by protecting your information.
• Shred financial documents and any paperwork that contains personal information before discarding them.
• Safeguard your Social Security number. Avoid carrying your card in your wallet or writing your number on a check. Share it only when absolutely necessary or request an alternative identifier.
• Refrain from giving out personal information over the phone, via mail, or on the Internet unless you know who you are dealing with.
• Never click on links in unsolicited emails; instead, enter a known web address directly. Secure your home computer with firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus software, and ensure they are always up-to-date. Visit www.OnGuardOnline.gov for more information.
• Avoid using obvious passwords, such as your birth date, mother’s maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
• Keep your personal information in a secure place at home, especially if you have roommates, employ outside help, or are having work done in your house.

Detect:

Detect suspicious activity by regularly monitoring your financial accounts and billing statements. Be vigilant for signs that need immediate attention:

• Bills not arriving as expected
• Unexpected credit card or account statements
• Denials of credit without clear reason
• Calls or letters about purchases you did not make

Inspect:

• Your credit report contains information about you, including your accounts and payment history.
• The law mandates that the major nationwide consumer reporting companies—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—provide you with a free copy of your credit report each year upon request. To order your free credit report annually, visit www.AnnualCreditReport.com or call 1-877-322-8228, a service established by these three companies. You can also write to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281.
• Your financial statements should be reviewed regularly for any unauthorized charges.

Defend:

• Defend against ID theft as soon as you suspect it.
• Place a “Fraud Alert” on your credit reports and review them carefully. The alert instructs creditors to follow specific procedures before opening new accounts in your name or making changes to your existing accounts. The three nationwide consumer reporting companies have toll-free numbers to place an initial 90-day fraud alert; you should call each
• Equifax: 1-800-525-6285
• Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)
• TransUnion: 1-800-680-7289
• Placing a fraud alert entitles you to free copies of your credit reports. Look for inquiries from companies you haven’t contacted, accounts you didn’t open, and debts on your accounts that you can’t explain.
• Close accounts. Shut down any accounts that have been tampered with or established fraudulently.
• Call each company’s security or fraud department where an account was opened or changed without your consent. Follow up in writing, including copies of supporting documents.
• Use the ID Theft Affidavit at ftc.gov/idtheft to bolster your written statement.
• Request verification that the disputed account has been closed and the fraudulent debts discharged.
• Maintain copies of documents and records of your conversations regarding the theft.
• File a police report. Report the incident to law enforcement officials to assist you with creditors who may require proof of the crime.
• Report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission. Your report aids law enforcement officials nationwide in their investigations.

Internet Safety Tips for Parents

• Become more computer literate and Internet savvy.
• Keep the computer in a public area of your house.
• Monitor your child’s computer use. Talk with your children about their online activities and friends.
• Explore the parental controls available with your internet service. Block adult chat rooms and Instant/Direct/Personal Messages from unknown individuals. Install filtering or blocking software or use a clean Internet provider that filters at the server level.
• Do not allow your children to have online profiles so they won’t appear in directories and are less likely to be approached in children’s chat rooms, where predators often seek targets.
• Inform your children never to enter a private chat room.
• Advise your children to refrain from sharing personal information, including their name, address, school, teachers’ names, and parents’ names.
• Tell your children never to share their location or plans, even on Facebook, and they should never meet someone they met online without your permission.
• Instruct your children never to respond to rude or offensive emails, messages, or posts.
• Do not let your children post, send, or receive pictures online, as these often have file extensions like GIF, JPG, or JPEG. Monitor the time your child spends online and the times of day they are active. Excessive internet use, especially at night, may indicate a problem. Time spent online detracts from other healthy activities.
• Encourage your children to inform you if anything seems odd to them, if they receive personal questions, or if an online friend invites them to meet somewhere.
• Changes in your child’s behavior, such as mentioning unfamiliar adults, being secretive, or demonstrating inappropriate sexual knowledge, along with issues like sleeping problems, may signal a concern.

Allowing children to use the Internet unsupervised, especially in chat rooms, is akin to dropping them off in Central Park and saying, “Go make some new friends.”

Phone Scam Alert

There are hundreds of ways to lose money to a scam artist. Most successful scams are founded upon the victim’s own greed. The promise of something for nothing or the promise of a fantastic deal is often the come-on. Remember. you don’t get something for nothing. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Strangers don’t offer to split found cash or share their lottery winnings with people they don’t know.

Phone Scam #1
Several residents in the city have received collect calls from various jails and accepted the calls thinking a friend or relative was in trouble. The “caller” tells the homeowner something like, “I don’t know how I got connected to your number, I was trying to reach my mom/friend/parent/relative to let them know I was in jail”. The homeowner, feeling sorry for the person, takes the bait, and the “caller” sets the hook with one final plea for help. It goes something like this, “I only get one call so please, please I need you to call my mom at work and let her know I’m in jail. Her number is 903-XXX-XXXX, but you have to dial ” * 72 ” before the number because it’s a business/PBX line”. Dialing ” * 72 ” or “star 72” followed by “mom’s” phone number transfers your phone number to the number you just dialed. Oops! They now have your line and can make long-distance calls without your knowledge, and it’s on your dime. This can get expensive quickly. Dailing ” * 73 ” reverses the process.
Phone Scam #2
This scam is one of the most common schemes targeting older adults. In this scam, the victim receives a phone call, text, or email informing them that they have won a large sum of money in the Publisher’s Clearing House lottery. Most victims have never even entered the lottery but struggle to remember that fact. The scammer claims that they have won millions of dollars but must send money to cover “taxes” or “processing fees.” They typically request thousands of dollars through wire transfer, cashier’s check, gift cards, Venmo, or PayPal. They instruct the victim not to tell friends or family because it is meant to be a “surprise.
Remember, if you must pay money to receive money, it’s a scam. If something seems too good to be true, it is. Reach out to a trusted source before acting. You always have time to verify; don’t let them take that away from you. If they insist that you need to pay immediately, it’s a scam—end the conversation. It is perfectly fine to hang up.
Phone Scam #3
Scammers may impersonate law enforcement or federal agencies, threatening that you’ll be arrested, fined, or deported if you don’t pay taxes or other debts immediately. Their goal is to intimidate you into making a payment. However, legitimate law enforcement and federal agencies will not call you with threats. The IRS will only send letters and will never call with threats.

Information on Traffic Stops

If a police officer stops you for a traffic violation, keep in mind the following tips to increase your chances of avoiding a citation and to make the traffic stop safe for you and the officer:

• Slow down and safely pull over as soon as possible.
• Remain calm. Remember that you may have committed a minor traffic violation that you are unaware of, or the officer may have pulled you over because your vehicle has a problem.
• Turn off your vehicle engine and turn your dome light on.
• Remain in the driver’s seat with both hands clearly in sight on the steering wheel.
• DO NOT exit your vehicle unless the officer instructs you to do so.
• Be courteous and non-confrontational. You should comply with the officer’s request to see your driver’s license and proof of insurance. If these documents are in you glove box or another location, inform the officer of where they are and follow the officer’s instructions for retrieving them.
• Listen carefully to the officer.
• Stay respectful and use your manners when responding to the officer’s commands. Avoid challenging the officer.
• If you prefer not to answer until you consult an experienced criminal defense attorney, that is your right.
• If you receive a ticket that requires your signature, sign it. This does not mean you are admitting guilt. You are simply confirming that you have received the ticket.
• Request the officer’s name and badge number.
• Determine whether you can leave. You have the right to end an encounter with a police officer unless you are detained or arrested. If you are uncertain, ask the officer.

What should I do if the police car is unmarked?

Many police departments use both marked and unmarked patrol cars for traffic stops. This practice reminds drivers that a police officer could be operating any vehicle, so drivers should always follow traffic laws. However, in some cases, the driver of an unmarked vehicle trying to pull you over might be an impersonator attempting to engage in illegal activities. Impersonating a police officer is Illegal.
If you have doubts about the vehicle attempting to pull you over because it is unmarked and you cannot identify the driver, you should:

• Activate your hazard lights to inform the officer that you are complying with their request to pull over.
• If you have a mobile phone, call 911 and ask the dispatcher to confirm that it is a legitimate police officer trying to pull you over. This can be done verifying your vehicle description and location. In some states, a special number may be displayed along the roadside that connects you directly to the state’s highway patrol.
• With your hazard lights on, drive to the nearest well-lit, populated area.
• Try to get the attention of a uniformed officer.
• After you stop, turn on your interior dome light to signal the officer to do the same.
• If an officer is driving an unmarked vehicle in plain clothes, you can ask for a uniformed officer to come to the scene.

Purse Snatchers

How to Protect Your Purse from Snatchers:

Purse snatching is a crime of opportunity. To truly be a survivor instead of a victim eliminates that opportunity. Every woman with a purse is a potential target. Senior citizens are especially vulnerable to these criminals since they may not be able to defend themselves easily, making them ideal victims.

What Can You Do?

Purse snatching is a crime that can be easily prevented by removing the opportunity for the thief. Most purse-snatchers are juveniles under the age of 18, waiting for their next chance. When you conceal the “prize,” you safeguard yourself!

Imagine you are shopping and waiting for the bus. You are alone, and your purse is exposed in plain view. You’ve already made two mistakes: you’re by yourself, and your purse is vulnerable. Honestly, your personal safety might depend on NOT holding onto that purse, even though it seems normal to want to protect its contents. Grabbing and shoving could lead to injury. However, there are ways to keep yourself safe.

Shop With A friend and Travel Together.

The first precaution you can take is to shop with a friend—regardless of gender. This is an effective form of self-defense or protection against theft. You’re safer when accompanied by someone else. If you must be out alone at night, stay in well-lit areas. Walk close to streetlights, keeping a safe distance from dark corners and alleys. For your safety, carry some form of self-defense.

How to Outsmart a Purse Snatcher.

Women should only have 3 or 4 one-dollar bills when carrying a purse. Credit cards, cash, driver’s licenses, keys, and jewelry should be kept in a coat or sweater pocket or concealed on your person to minimize the risk of significant losses. If you carry a purse, avoid wrapping the strap around your shoulder, neck, or wrist. If someone grabs your purse, a strong strap may not give way easily, and you could be injured. Some victims of purse snatching have been thrown down and suffered concussions or broken bones. Never carry anything more valuable than you can afford to lose and always leave unnecessary credit cards at home. When you shop with a purse, place it inside your shopping bag. Never leave your purse on a store counter or in a grocery cart, even for just a moment.

Don’t Carry Dangerous Weapons.

For personal protection, consider carrying a police whistle or flashlight. For self-defense, keep pepper spray or mace on your keychain for easy access. Make it a habit to carry your keychain in a pocket – not in your purse. Additionally, never put your name and address on your house or car keys. This is simply a way of informing a thief who you are and where you live.

CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY.

Most victims are attacked from behind, so they don’t get a good look at their attacker. When a juvenile gets away with it once, he’s likely to try again. If you are attacked, call the police immediately and try to remember all the details to help them assist you!

How can I prevent purse snatching?

One way to prevent purse snatching is to avoid carrying a purse or to carry it in a way that makes it less accessible, such as wearing it under your coat. Many women believe that wearing a shoulder bag with the strap diagonally across their body is a good idea; however, if someone grabs the purse in that position and tries to run, the strap can catch around your neck. Keeping your purse close to your body and placing your arm over it makes it a bit more difficult for someone to grab it. Additionally, being aware of your surroundings is crucial.

Should I let him take my purse?

That’s a decision you must make on the spot, and various factors influence it.

If someone is trying to harm you for your purse, you have the right to defend yourself. In certain situations, women may choose to relinquish their purses, believing the person will take them and not cause any more trouble. If that’s the choice you make, it’s a reasonable one. If you choose to fight for your purse, make sure you know how to defend yourself and ensure that your attacker is unarmed

You can alleviate your anxiety about this crime by taking proactive steps to reduce its impact, such as carrying less cash, keeping copies of your favorite photos at home, and knowing the procedures for reporting stolen credit cards. If you take these precautions, you may find it easier to give up your purse without confrontation.

Shopping Safety Tips

• Be aware of your surroundings and look for suspicious individuals when you are in any area.

• Remember where you parked your car. While this may sound basic, many shopping centers span large areas. Not being able to find your car can lead to confusion and stress, which may make you a more appealing target for criminals.

• If shopping late in the day or after dark, park in a well-lit area. Remember the closing times of the stores in the mall you enter, as some may close earlier than others. This will help you avoid unnecessary walking if you find that a store has closed sooner than expected.

• Shop in pairs. Bring a friend or family with you. There’s safety in numbers.

• As you return to your car, keep your car key in your hand.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Use checks, credit, charge, or debit cards for your purchases. Carry cash and wallets in a front pocket to lessen the chances of pickpocketing.

• Don’t leave cell phones, purses, CD cases, or any other valuable items in your parked car where they can be seen. Always conceal these belongings.

• Don’t leave purchased merchandise in your parked car where it can be visible. Conceal these items as well.

While these steps do not guarantee you will avoid becoming a crime victim, they can help reduce your chances of falling prey to a criminal.

Stolen Purse or Wallet

Please take these steps immediately:
1. File a police report. Your bank and credit reporting agencies will require a copy of this report and a case number. Be sure to explain to the police officer:
• When you first noticed your wallet was missing.
• Where you believe it was lost or stolen; and
• The types of currency and any relevant information that was in your wallet.

2. Notify your bank.
• Provide them with a copy of the police report and case number.
• You may need to close your accounts and transfer your funds to a new account.
• Request your bank to contact the major check verification companies so they can inform stores not to accept any further checks from your account.
• Cancel your ATM card. Obtain a new one and set it up with a new PIN.

3. Cancel all your credit cards right away. Your credit card companies will issue a new card with a new number. They may also inquire about recent transactions to verify if you made them.

4. Notify all three major credit reporting agencies:
• Equifax – 1-800-525-6285
• TransUnion – 1-800-680-7289
• Experian – 1-888-397-3742
5. For each of these agencies, request the fraud or security department to place a fraud alert on your credit report.
• A few weeks after the incident, obtain a free copy of your credit report to check for any fraudulent transactions made in your name.