Crime Prevention for seniors page 2

Carry your purse very close to you...don't dangle it from your arm. Never leave your purse in a shopping cart. Never leave your purse unattended.
Don't carry any more cash than is necessary. Use checks and automatic teller cards instead of cash.
Don't display large sums of cash.

Always keep your car doors locked, whether you are in or out of your car. Keep your gas tank full and your engine properly maintained to avoid breakdowns.
If your car breaks down, pull over to the right as far as possible, raise the hood, and wait INSIDE the car for help, with the doors locked. Avoid getting out of the car and making yourself a target before police arrive.
At stop signs and traffic lights, keep the car in gear.
Travel well-lit and busy streets. Plan your route.
Don't leave your purse on the seat beside you; put it on the floor, where it is more difficult for someone to grab it.
Lock bundles or bags in the trunk; a thief will not be tempted to break in to steal them.
When returning to your car, check the front and back seat before entering.
Never pick up hitchhikers.

Many criminals know exactly when government checks arrive each month and may pick that day to attack. Use Direct Deposit instead, which sends your money directly to the bank of your choice. Your bank has all the information and often makes special accommodations for seniors.
Never withdraw money from your bank accounts for anyone except YOURSELF. Be wary of con artists and get-rich schemes that probably are too-good-to-be-true.
If someone approaches you with a get-rich-quick-scheme involving some or all of YOUR savings, it is HIS get-rich-quick-scheme. If it is a legitimate investment, the opportunity to contribute your funds will still be there tomorrow-after you have had time to consider it.
Store valuables in a Safe Deposit Box.
Never give your money to someone who calls on you, identifying himself as a bank official. A bank will never ask you to remove your money; banks need the use of your money.
If you have been swindled or conned, report the crime to your local police. Con-artists count on their victim's reluctance to report. If you delay, you help them get away. Remember, if you never report the crime, they are free to cheat others again and again and you have no chance of ever getting your money back.