Full Notification

Northfield Twp Police remind our Community to
Use caution this Holiday Season

The end of the year brings out the giving spirit in people – however, Charity donations, Christmas/Holiday Shopping and busy times create the perfect opportunities for fraudulent schemes (Scams) to occur.

Protect your hard-earned money and your generosity – When making charitable donations, do research. Two free websites that provide valuable information on legitimate charitable organizations are www.charitynavigator.org and The Better Business Bureau’s site: www.give.org.

We’ve all heard it is going to be a tough year for gift buying--- lack of employees, microchip shortages, and supply chain problems have buyers shopping the internet.

When ordering on the internet, do not take advantage of “good deals” that pop up: internet shopping should be initiated by the shopper browsing a dedicated website, not an advertisement encouraging the shopper to enter a site. NEVER click on an unsolicited link.

Be cautious of “Last Minute Deals” or “Flash Sales”. Scam sales are especially targeting the hot gifts for kids, knowing that no parent wants to disappoint their child on Christmas. Scammers are using the toys' popularity to trick parents out of their money. 

• Only buy toys from reputable stores and websites. Sophisticated criminals are luring buyers to purchase counterfeit items.
• Don’t be fooled by extra-low prices. Unreasonably low prices should be a red flag. Avoid making a purchase from a retailer you aren’t familiar with just because the price sounds too good to be true – it probably is!
• Research before you buy. If a company seems legitimate, but you aren’t familiar with it, make sure someone answers their customer service number. Read company reviews.

Pets are always a welcome addition during the holiday. Puppy scams are on the rise again, before you make the purchase request to see the pet in person.  
 
Do not “bite” should you receive bonus plans, unsolicited prizes or emergency scam texts, emails or phone calls.  As a reminder, NEVER send a payment for anything with gift cards and NEVER provide your bank account information believing prize money will be deposited.
 
Retailers traditionally hire seasonal workers to fulfill the demands of holiday shoppers, whether for online or in person sales—remain cautious when responding to employment opportunities-- -Remember:

• Employers will never ask for payment upfront for a job. Beware of any business that ask applicants to pay for job supplies, application fees, or training fees. These expenses are the responsibility of the employer.

• Be cautious of job offers that don’t require an interview.  If a job offer is given without an interview (either by phone or in person), do better research on the company offering you the position.
• Be cautious of big money for small jobs. If an employer is promising outrageously good wages for what seems like simple tasks such as reshipping packages, stuffing envelopes, or answering phones, this should concern you.  Such great offers use fake applications to steal your personal information. 
• Never work for a company before they hire you. A legitimate company will not ask potential applicants to complete projects before making an official offer. Make sure you have an employment package in writing, which includes wages, hours and compensation details.

 Always use caution when receiving calls, texts or emails proclaiming suspicious activity has been found on your  Amazon, Paypal, Netflix or Bank account.  Never push a button or open a link to find out more.  Hang up.  Do not call back the number provided.  Rather check your accounts or call your banking institution using the customer service number provided on a statement.

If traditional shopping will be your method this season – remember to keep all purchases out of site when parking your vehicle at your next shopping destination.  If making cash payments, do not pull out all your money, have it divided.

*** Always remember to record and file all serial numbers for any valuable gifts. 
            
         Wishing All a Peaceful & Happy Holiday Season !