RCMP are warning residents to be extra cautious when Christmas shopping, whether that's in a store on online. The message is clear: be aware or you could become a victim of fraud. Cst. Francine Hennelly has these tips.

Further tips include:

  • Always shield your PIN when entering it. Don’t be embarrassed – you’re not insulting anyone.
  • Do not keep a written record of your bank PIN number(s) or your social insurance number in your wallet or hand bag.
  • If you suspect anything unusual when using a point-of-sale terminal (pin pad) or an ATM, do not use the machine and report it immediately to the police or the financial institution.

When shopping online:

  • Shop only from your home computer and equip it with the latest web browser. Using your home computer is much safer than shopping at a terminal in an internet café or library.
  • If you plan to buy something, go directly to a store’s website by manually typing its address into your web browser. Don’t click on links in an e-mail message even if you know who sent it.
  • Verify secure connections. When shopping on-line, do not enter any financial information if you see a broken-key or open padlock symbol on your Internet browser. This means the transaction is not secure and could be intercepted by a third party. When the key is complete or the padlock is locked, your browser is indicating a secure transaction.
  • Consider using a reliable third-party payment company such as PayPal, a credit card with a low credit limit or a single-use payment card.
  • Unlike secure order forms on a web site, e-mail messages are not private. Do not send confidential personal or financial information by e-mail.
  • When browsing auction sites or unauthorized retail websites, be cautious of drastic sale prices on sought-after designer items and popular electronics. The legitimate goods are rarely discounted.
  • Monitor your bank and credit card and statements on-line. Electronic statements allow you to review your purchases and payments as they happen rather than waiting until the end of the month to review your paper statement. Immediately report any discrepancies to your bank or to the company that issued the credit card.

RCMP say this holiday season, be a Scrooge with your personal information. If, despite your best efforts, you feel you’ve been victimized by a scam or a fraud, you should report it immediately to your local police.