SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — A Utah security expert is urging shoppers to stay alert this holiday season — online, in parking lots, and at home — as thefts, scams, and crime rise during the busiest shopping months of the year.
Steve Lindsey, chief technology officer at LiveView Technologies, helped design the security systems used by most major retailers. He shared simple, proven ways to help people protect themselves and their property this season — from avoiding phishing scams and porch theft to staying aware in parking lots and crowded stores.
Here are Steve’s five biggest tips for shopping safely:
1. Shop Smart Online: Verify Before You Buy
Avoid holiday phishing scams by shopping only on trusted sites. Check that the URL starts with “https,” and watch for spelling errors in the web address or suspicious deals that seem too good to be true.
2. Outsmart Porch Pirates
With hundreds of millions of packages stolen each year, skip porch delivery when possible. Use secure delivery options like Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery, Amazon Lockers, UPS/FedEx Access Points, or arrange in-store pickup. If home delivery is necessary, track your shipments closely and bring packages in immediately upon arrival. Consider retailers that offer theft replacement guarantees.
3. Park Smart: Light, Sight, and Proximity
Choose well-lit, high-traffic areas near store entrances or visible cameras. Always be aware of your surroundings (ahead, behind, and to the side), and avoid looking at your phone while walking to and from your car. Keep keys ready as you approach your car, lock doors right away, and never leave bags visible inside.
4. Protect Your Payment Methods
Limit cash use, and always use the chip or tap method for credit card payments instead of swiping. Stay alert for card skimmers, avoid ATMs that appear tampered with, and shield your PIN when entering it. Keep wallets and phones in front pockets or zipped compartments when navigating crowds.
5. Stay Alert, Not Distracted
Distracted shoppers are easy targets. Avoid texting while walking between stores or to your car. Keep purchases close to your body and stay aware of your surroundings.
In-store shopping and safety awareness
“As consumers rediscover the joy of in-store shopping this holiday season—with 74% saying it’s the best way to get into the holiday spirit—it’s important to make safety part of the experience. Simple awareness goes a long way: park in well-lit areas near store entrances, keep valuables out of sight, and stay present in the moment rather than distracted by your phone. When shoppers take these small, proactive steps, they can fully enjoy the magic of discovering that perfect gift and reconnecting with the holiday traditions they love.”— Steve Lindsey, CTO, LiveView Technologies
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