Although Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays around the world, it may also be the most dangerous. Everyone seems to assume that, as sung in one of the most popular songs by Andy Williams and covered by other artist, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year”. However, the holiday season is also a great time for thieves and shoplifters. Some of you may already know why this is and others are looking at this like it’s some foreign creature, who just did the oddest of things thinking people wouldn’t be as cruel as to steal during the jolliest time of the year, but on the contrary, criminals tend to strike more often now knowing people are out holiday shopping.

Not only are people going around breaking into peoples’ cars, houses and stealing from stores, but there are also some heartless people who scam others by taking advantage of the holiday season. While we all are looking for the best deal online, we see a site that offers those really expensive shoes you wanted for a real good price, a price too good to be true. The BBB (Better Business Bureaus) hears often from holiday shoppers who paid a “good price” for those shoes I mentioned and ended up getting nothing in return for their money. Becky Maier, the public relations director from the BBB, told Jared Newman that she “advises people to check the business out with the BBB before they make any online purchases at smaller stores they aren’t familiar with”.

Something that may not have ever occurred to you is that when you or your parents are struggling with what feels like 5,000 bags full of Christmas presents, someone may be looking at you using the ATM and want your business at their own personal store full of new and popular items. Thieves see your struggles as an opportunity to steal debit or credit card numbers, so stay alert of your surroundings and cover the key pad while entering in your pin number or do it for your parents when they’re entering theirs in.

“The holidays are a time of giving, which creates a great opportunity for scammers to solicit donations to line their own pockets,” Maier says. A lot of us have big ‘ole heart, which is such a fantastic trait, but just be cautious of who and what you’re giving your money too. Make sure you know as much as possible about the charity you are donating to and even if just for a second the situation seems sketchy or off, just walk away.

Officer Jason Willingham from Tulsa Police Department also stated that “criminals look for people to rob that aren’t paying attention to what’s going on around them. When you leave the mall, before you walk outside, put your keys in your hand, think about where you parked, and put the cell phone down. These guys look for victims. If someone is walking swiftly with a purpose and they know what’s going on around them, they’re not going to attack that individual.” Making sure you are aware of your surroundings is one of many keys to being safe. Rodger Humber also said that “you are most vulnerable when you are alone or distracted.” He also recommends making your house look occupied when you’re out to make burglars less likely to break in and take things.

I know all the things I just said have probably scared you out of your wits and made you extremely nervous about the holidays, but they shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the holidays with your family and friends. Keep safe this year Sharks!