Experts offer safety advice while shopping this holiday season

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– The holiday shopping season is in full swing, with people searching for the perfect gift in-store and online. 

Some people are also searching for the perfect theft. Like porch pirates and online scammers.  

Security experts say the rush to check things off the holiday shopping list for friends and family can sometimes leave you open to becoming the victim of a crime. 

“The main thing when you’re out and about is to stay vigilant. I mean that’s the key. People get so caught up, especially during the holidays in the mall. You’re on a mission and you’re not paying attention to your surroundings,” said Patrick Fiel, PVF Security Consulting President. 

When shopping in places like malls, experts say it is important to be aware of your surroundings inside and outside the store. They also recommend shopping during the day, and staying off your phone while you shop and when you’re heading into the parking lot.  

“I feel pretty safe. Like on a scale from 1-10 maybe a 7. I’m just aware of my surroundings if I’m alone, and just watching for the people that are around me too,” said Kennedy Klatt, Shopper.

Another important reminder that is often overlooked, making sure your home is safe while you are away.    

“When you are going away, some of the things you need to do is make it look like you are still there. Make sure you have neighbors watching over your house, have light timers, don’t have boxes stored, have someone pick them up…” said Fiel.  

Fiel says do not make it evident to criminals that you’re away by posting it on social media. And ask someone you trust to visit your house regularly while you are gone to give your home that lived-in feel  

“The whole process, it’s staying focused and staying vigilant,” said Fiel.    

“Just pay attention to who’s around you, especially if it’s a big group of people and you are all by yourself, just watch out for that and what they’re doing,” said Klatt.    

The experts say being extra vigilant this holiday season will help keep you safe.  

Always trust your instincts and report any and all suspicious activity to shopping mall security officers or local law enforcement.