December is the busiest time of year for scammers and package thieves. It is also a season when ordinary shoppers get accused of things they did not do. A little preparation, and good records, protect you either way.
Scams to watch for
- Fake delivery messages. A text or email says a package is on hold and asks you to click a link. Go to the carrier or store website yourself. Do not use the link.
- Gift card demands. No government office, utility, court or police department takes payment in gift cards. Anyone who asks for that is running a scam.
- Charity impostors. Look up the charity yourself and give through its own website.
- Online marketplace meetups. Meet in a public place. Many police departments offer their parking lots for exchanges.
Package theft
- Have packages held at a pickup location, or delivered to work or to a neighbor who is home.
- Use delivery alerts so a package does not sit for hours.
- A doorbell camera helps, but only if you save the clip. Many cameras record over old video within days.
If you are the victim
Save everything before you report it: screenshots of messages, the phone numbers and email addresses used, order confirmations, and any video. Report theft to your local police department, and report scams to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Call your bank or card company right away if money has moved.
If you or a family member is accused
Stores are crowded and loss prevention staff are busy in December, and mistakes happen. In Michigan, shoplifting is charged as retail fraud. If you are stopped or accused:
- Stay calm and do not argue or try to leave by force.
- You do not have to explain yourself to store security or sign anything. Ask to speak with an attorney.
- Keep your receipts, bags and bank records exactly as they are.
- Tell your attorney quickly which store and what time, so video can be requested before it is recorded over.
Our evidence preservation checklist explains how defense teams secure video and records before they disappear.
If someone you care about is facing a charge, the defense attorney can bring in an investigator early. Phillips Private Investigations & Consulting Firm works with defense teams in every Michigan county. Call 734-941-5200 or send us a message. The consultation is free and strictly confidential.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Talk to a licensed attorney about your situation.
