Most people are excited about the holiday season because they get to spend time with their family and friends and they get to enjoy the giving by exchanging presents. They do not think about the other people that look at the holidays as the prime time to steal. First of all, the number of burglaries goes up because it is darker for a longer period of time in the winter, so there is more time where criminals are under the cover of darkness. In addition, all of the gifts that are purchased at this time of the year are simply irresistible to thieves. One of the ways criminals are finding their victims these days is by scouring social media websites. They watch for people posting statuses that tell the whole world that their house is going to be unoccupied for a lengthy period of time. People announce that they are going on vacation to all of their friends, but sometimes people who are not friends are looking in on their activities, just waiting for the opportunity to strike. In addition, some people like to brag about the latest technological device they purchased on these sites, which simply allows potential burglars to shop before they break in. They will already know what they are looking for when they get inside. As such, it is best to keep vacation information and new purchases behind the scenes when posting on social sites that are not as secure as most people believe. Another way people become victims during the holidays is by giving away their money to fake charities. Unscrupulous people take advantage of the giving nature of the holidays by coming up with sympathetic-sounding organizations that tug at the heartstrings of generous people. It can be hard to tell the difference between a legitimate charity and one that is a scam, so it’s best to be careful when unknown people ask for money. Some other tips for holiday security are: • Always arm your home security system, even if you are home. You never know when someone might try to get in. • Only give money to charities that have solid reputations. Do your research before donating. • Make your house look occupied at all times, particularly if you are going to be gone for several days or longer. • Do not keep your holiday gifts in plain sight of windows. • Break down and cut up boxes after you open your presents so you don’t advertise your new belongings by putting them out on the curb for the trash. • If you do not have a home security system installed, consider getting one now. The holidays can be a wonderful time of the year, but if you get robbed, it will no longer be the joyous time it should be. Be vigilant and take extra steps to be safe and secure and your holidays will continue to be special.

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