Full Notification

The Lake Elsinore Police Department would like to remind our community members to stay alert during this holiday season. During this time of year, many of us become preoccupied with holiday planning, shopping and family events. These distractions often cause us to become rushed, careless, and vulnerable to driving related accidents, theft and other holiday crimes.

The following tips and reminders were compiled to help you navigate the holiday season safely. We can never be too careful, too prepared, or too alert. Please share the following information with your family, friends and neighbors.

General Safety:
• Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Criminals often target people who are distracted.
• Whether driving, walking or taking public transportation, plan the trip in advance. Know how to get to your destination using the most direct and safest route.
• When walking, travel on populated, well-lit streets. If possible, travel with a friend.
• Always lock your car.
• Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.

Shopping:
• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with another person.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
• Plan your purchases in advance and carry only the amount of cash, or number of credit cards, necessary to make the purchase. If you must carry a large sum of money, divide the cash between your purse, pockets and wallet.
• Keep cash, wallet and mobile devices in your front pocket or purse.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Be extra careful if you carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus/shuttle stops, and public transportation.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, thieves may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
• As a consumer, you should avoid illegal vendors selling goods on the street. Purchase merchandise only from licensed vendors or reputable stores. Follow your instincts. Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Parking/Driving Tips:
• Avoid driving alone, or at night.
• Keep all your car doors locked, and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm and use an anti-theft device.
• If you shop at night, park in a well-lit area.
• Park as close as you can to your destination, and take notice of where you parked.
• Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running, or with children inside.
• Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
• Be sure to locate your keys and have them in your hand, prior to going to your car.
• Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and packages. Do not put them down, or on top of the car in order to open the door.
• If you are concerned, ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.
• Make sure your gas tank is full. Maintain your car in good working order to avoid breakdowns.

Automated Teller Machine (ATM):
• If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located inside a business, or well-lit location.
• Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.
• Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.
• Do not throw away your ATM receipt at the ATM you just used.

Cyber Fraud:
• Do not respond to unsolicited (spam) e-mail.
• Do not click on links contained within an unsolicited e-mail.
• Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders. Always run a virus scan on attachment before opening.
• Avoid filling out forms contained in e-mail messages that ask for personal information.
• ways compare the link in the e-mail to the web address link you are directed to and determine if they match.
• Log on directly to the official Web site for the business identified in the e-mail, instead of “linking” to it from an unsolicited e-mail. If the e-mail appears to be from your bank, credit card issuer, or other company you deal with frequently, your statements or official correspondence from the business will provide the proper contact information.
• Contact the actual business that supposedly sent the e-mail to verify that the e-mail is genuine.
• If you are requested to act quickly or there is an emergency, it may be a scam. Fraudsters create a sense of urgency to get you to act impulsively.

The Lake Elsinore Police Department wishes you a safe, happy and peaceful holiday season.