At Doing More Today, our team of fraud fighters focuses on helping you prevent scams. This holiday season, we’re taking on a new subject: safe holiday shopping.
Yes, online deals are terrific. But many of us still enjoy searching for the perfect holiday gift – at the best price – in brick-and-mortar stores. It can be an adrenaline rush, as long as you stay physically safe.
“The holiday season can be stressful and rushed,” said Rebecca Tate, a Corporate Security Area Manager at Regions Bank. “Go in with a plan and a purpose. It helps make shopping easier and shows others who may not have good intentions that you mean business.”
Go in with a plan and a purpose. It helps make shopping easier and shows others who may not have good intentions that you mean business.
Rebecca Tate, Corporate Security Area Manager at Regions Bank
General Safety Awareness
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Walk confidently with your head up while looking at the entirety of your surroundings and the other people present.
- Avoid distractions, such as excessive phone use, and keep an eye on exits and store personnel in case of emergencies.
- Whenever possible, shop with someone or share your location with someone you trust.
“It can be rainy and cold when you arrive, and you may be in a rush to get inside,” said Paul Lefebvre, a Corporate Security Area Manager. “Be on the lookout for anything — or anyone — suspicious.”
Personal Belongings
- Keep wallets in front pockets rather than back pockets.
- Enable notifications for card transactions to monitor activity.
- Lock your vehicle.
“Keep valuables out of sight,” said Rebecca Tate. “And lock packages in your trunk for better safety.”
Parking Lot Safety
- Park in a well-lit area and lock your vehicle immediately after entering or exiting.
- Before approaching your vehicle, scan the area for unusual activity and have your keys ready.
- Don’t use earbuds or talk on the phone while shopping. Always stay alert for hazards, threats or suspicious activity.
Additional Resources from Regions.com
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The information presented is general in nature and should not be considered, legal, accounting or tax advice. Regions reminds its customers that they should be vigilant about fraud and security and that they are responsible for taking action to protect their computer systems. Fraud prevention requires a continuous review of your policies and practices, as the threat evolves daily. There is no guarantee that all fraudulent transactions will be prevented or that related financial losses will not occur. Visit regions.com/STOPFRAUD or speak with your Banker for further information on how you can help prevent fraud.