PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The Philadelphia district attorney’s office and the police department are warning the public to be aware of the Grinchs of Christmas.

DA Seth Williams says there are several things holiday shoppers can do to stay safe, “Most thieves choose their victims because they see the opportunity. Chances are you won’t become a victim.”

DA Williams says some fall for the scams out there; one being “smishing” which is automated text messaging asking for your personal information, “What to do. Check the call number on Google to make sure it’s legitimate.”

He says research charities before giving donations to make sure their not bogus. And to be leery of instant credit offers and free travel vacations.
Police remind you to be mindful of your surroundings, keep packages out of site in parked vehicles and if you run into suspicious activity, don’t hesitate to call 911.

Reported By John McDevitt, KYW Newsradio