The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office is offering tips, whether you will be shopping online or in person. If you are shopping in stores be sure to be aware of your surroundings, especially in parking lots during nighttime hours. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from a security guard to help you to your car. Police are asking women that if you don’t leave your purse at home, keep it as close to your body as possible. Multiple shopping bags can attract attention, as well as carrying cash. Never use a debit card when shopping online. Using a credit card is the safest way to shop online Make sure you are buying from a secure site. Look for the address bar to turn green, the web address to begin with “https” or a pad lock symbol. Also, using a different password will keep hackers away from your account information.
