BILOXI, MS (WLOX) -
While you're on the lookout for that perfect holiday deal, thieves are on the lookout for your personal information.
"We see a lot more fraud of every kind, including credit card fraud," said Jackie Rhodes of the Biloxi Police Department.
Online shopping makes knocking out your Christmas list easy, but that convenience also puts your credit card information at risk.
"They [hackers] can get your credit card number. They can get the little three digit number on the back, and if they have those two things they can go online and buy anything they want to," said Rhodes.
Police say that if you are shopping online to make sure the website has a security certificate. Also, if you're using Wi-Fi, make sure it's password protected.
"If it doesn't have a security certificate, don't give any credit card information because there is somebody on the other end collecting that information," said Rhodes. "Next thing you know, you have a $20,000 charge on your credit card that you know nothing about."
Even when shopping in person, you still need to keep an eye on your surroundings.
"If somebody is standing by you with a phone in hand, they could be taking a picture of your credit card number. They could be taking a picture of what numbers you type into a key pad. Pay attention to that. Trust your instincts," said Rhodes.
Even discarded receipts could hold valuable information.
Rhodes also suggests carrying only enough cash to cover your purchases, and only carry the credit cards you use.
If you see any suspicious activity, police say to alert a security guard or ask a store employee for help.
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