Michael R. Kent
Chief of Police
45 Center Street
Burlington, MA 01803
www.bpd.org
For Immediate Release
Friday, Dec. 15, 2017
Media Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net
Burlington Police Offer Tips for Avoiding Scams This Holiday Season
BURLINGTON — With just over a week left in the holiday shopping season, Chief Michael Kent and the Burlington Police Department wish to remind residents to be vigilant in order to protect themselves from falling victim to scams and theft.
“The holidays can be a time when people can attempt to prey on unsuspecting people and take advantage of them,” Chief Kent said. “I urge residents to report anything that seems suspicious, whether it’s something they encounter while doing their holiday shopping or an unsolicited phone call they receive at home.”
To help residents protect themselves, Burlington Police offer the following tips:
- Only complete online purchases from website you know are legitimate, and do research on any that seem unfamiliar.
- Beware of deals that seem too good to be true, especially those you see in unsolicited emails or on social media.
- Always buy store gift cards directly from those retailers, rather than from the rack at grocery or convenience stores. Scammers can record card numbers and use them to steal the value of a card once they’re sold.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks when shopping online.
- Always keep close tabs on your belongings when shopping in public. It can take only a few seconds for thieves to steal wallets and other sensitive items from pockets or purses.
- Verify the authenticity of any charities or causes you wish to support by checking on giving.org or charitynavigator.org.
- Beware of any unsolicited phone calls from unfamiliar numbers.
Residents who see or hear anything suspicious are asked to call the Burlington Police Department at 781-272-1212.
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