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Officials target theft, Web fraud
By Sabrina L. Miller
Tribune staff reporter
'Tis the season for shoppers to protect themselves from scam artists like pickpockets, purse snatchers and online fraud with the start of the holiday shopping season, city officials warned.
Both the Chicago police and Department of Consumer Services Commissioner Caroline Schoenberger offered shoppers simple tips to prevent becoming victims of fraud and theft whether they are venturing out to buy gifts or shopping by computer.
This is the season to shop, but we want people to shop smart and shop safe, Schoenberger said. Whether you're shopping in a store or shopping online you really must learn to protect your privacy or protect yourself.
If you're shopping on the Internet or by telephone, she said, do business only with retailers you know, pay by credit card and get plenty of information before bidding on an online auction site. Schoenberger also suggests finding out a retailer's return/exchange policy before making a purchase.
Everyone seems to be sure that in the United States our Constitution includes the right to return--it doesn't, she joked.
She also suggested donating only to charities you know and being cautious of Internet charities.
We want people to give, but make sure you're giving to a real charity and not to someone's personal charity, she said.
Chicago police urged shoppers to stay alert, particularly in crowded areas. Tactical teams specializing in pickpocket scams will be deployed to high-traffic areas and on CTA buses and trains.
Police also offered these tips:
- Keep your purse in front of you or under a jacket or coat.
- Keep your wallet in your front pants pocket or coat breast pocket.
- Lock packages and other valuables in car trunks.
Copyright © 2003, The Chicago Tribune
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