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Philadelphia DA Issues Annual List Of Holiday Shopping Safety Reminders

By Cherri Gregg

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Philadelphia's district attorney has issued his annual warning for the official kick off of the holiday shopping season.

"There's always somebody looking to separate you from your money," says DA Seth Williams, "the best course of action is prevention." The DA's office sent out a seven page press release on Wednesday laying out warnings and reminders to help the public avoid becoming a victim during the holiday shopping season.

The first step to prevention is physical safety.

"We tell people when you in the parking lot, do not park next to a van without windows," says Williams, "sometimes robbers will be there and they'll pull the people or the bags the people are holding into the van."

Also, keep shopping bags in the trunk, out of sight, while you are shopping. And, if you can, do not send packages to your home if no one will be there.

"If you suspect you may not be home, have it sent to your office, if you can," says Williams.

Second point of prevention-- monitor your bank and credit card accounts. Thieves will make small charges on your account to "test" the account. If they go undetected, the scammer will follow up with larger charges.

"If you see any purchase that you did not make, immediately call your bank," says Williams.

He says be sure to change your passwords to online accounts during the season to prevent hacking. Williams advises using your credit card, instead of a debit card, for online purchases, big ticket items and in restaurants, at gas stations and at check outs that look a little off.

Third point of prevention-- guard your wallet and your identify. You can do this by leaving important documents, like your birth certificate and social security card at home.

"If your wallet gets taken and they have your social security number, they can try to open up lines of credit," says Williams.

And check all of your credit cards when you get home. If one is missing, call your bank and cancel the card immediately.

Finally, Williams says beware of online scams, emails, old gift cards and an ads that focus on deep, deep discounts. Happy shopping!

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