MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WMOT) -- As the holiday season gets underway, keep in mind that you’re not the only one dreaming about what might be under the tree Christmas morning.
The holidays are a special time for thieves as well, with many homes empty as families travel and distracted shoppers making for easy targets.
Murfreesboro Police are recommending a new, online personal inventory system where you can register your possessions, including all the new electronic gadgets Santa will soon be delivering.
The MPD’s Kyle Evans says reportit.leadsonline.com allows police departments nationwide to locate stolen items.
“When you report it to law enforcement, it will be put into a system similar to NCIC where if someone tries to sell it eBay, for example, it will flag that number and we’ll be able to return your items to you no matter where it’s being sold anywhere in the entire country, or if it’s turned into a pawn shop for example.”
The MPD has a number of other suggestions for keeping your holidays "happy and bright," including:
- Always shop with a friend or family member.
- Do not carry a large amount of cash.
- Notify the credit card issuer and police immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
- Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas. Wear your purse across the body to keep your hands free for your keys, both when heading to your car and into your home.
- Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion.
- Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason.
- Park your car in a well-lit area and keep track of where it is parked.
- Be careful what you post online. Don't alert others that you aren't at home.
- Hide purchases from view or place items in your trunk to prevent break-ins.
- Lock your vehicle doors every time you leave your vehicle.
- Before you make any online purchases, consider the following advice.
- Make sure you are buying from a secure site and reputable stores. Make sure the URL begins with HTTPS along with the small padlock icon in the address bar when in the payment steps.
- Make sure your computer’s security software is up to date.
- Use a different password at every site. The password should be a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Never give money orders or credit card information through email.