Condensed from a Division of Operations, Finance & Support communication
As the holiday season approaches, it's important to prioritize the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. With an increase in theft and cybercrime during this time of year, staying vigilant is key. The Rice University Police Department and the Information Security Office share essential tips to help you safeguard your personal life, from avoiding holiday scams to securing your home and digital presence.
Theft Prevention Tips
Take these precautions to reduce the risk of theft:
- Stay Aware in Crowded Areas: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in places like shopping malls and public transportation.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep valuables close and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Park Smart: Choose well-lit parking spots and always lock your vehicle.
- Hide Valuables: Keep shopping bags, gifts, and valuables out of sight, preferably covered or in your trunk.
- Protect Your Home While Away: Ask a trusted neighbor to watch your property and use light timers to give the appearance that someone is home.
Cybersecurity Tips
Cybercriminal activity, including phishing attacks, ramp up during the holidays due to increased online activity, travel, and festivities. Follow these best practices to stay safe online:
- Be Wary of Phishing & Scams: Question urgent requests and unexpected links, such as purchase alerts, account warnings, or free giveaways. Scammers may also send fake booking confirmations or package alerts.
- Protect Your Online Accounts with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add MFA to your shopping, banking, and credit accounts to provide extra account security.
- Keep an Eye on Your Devices: Never leave devices unattended, especially when traveling, and avoid leaving devices visible in vehicles while shopping. Make sure your devices are encrypted and that you use strong passwords.
- Deals Too Good to be True: Some sites offering unbelievable deals may be harvesting your personal and credit card information. Stick to shopping at stores and sites you already know and trust.
See also:
For more prevention and safety tips, visit RUPD’s website. To learn more about cybersecurity, visit the Information Security Office’s website.