December 11, 2015
The holidays bring friends and families together in celebration and a spirit of giving. However, seasonal trends also lead to criminal activity. The following crimes occur most often during the holidays.
Identity Theft
While identity theft happens all year, increased spending by consumers makes the public particularly vulnerable during the holidays. Thieves work diligently online and offline, waiting for the ideal moment when they can obtain a consumer’s credit card number, social security number or other personal information. The tactics that criminals use to gain this information include phishing, pretexting and skimming.
Robbery and Shoplifting
The term robbery applies to several scenarios, including home break-ins. With many leaving town to visit relatives, an empty house presents an opportunity for burglars to enter. Outside of the home, crowded shopping centers create enough distraction that criminals feel secure in their ability to shoplift. Car theft is likely to occur, too. Additionally, crowds allow thieves to take wallets, purses and purchased items from unsuspecting shoppers.
Scams
During the holidays, con artists take advantage of individuals who desire to give back to those less fortunate. Phony charities often begin emerging at this time, and solicitors might travel door-to-door, make phone calls or send out emails to fraudulently collect donations. Other scams might include offering unbelievable deals on popular items, or claiming to be a long-lost relative in need of financial assistance.
Driving Under the Influence
As holidays bring people together in celebration, the gatherings tend to involve alcohol. An increased number of people traveling, combined with binge drinking, inclement weather and hazardous road conditions, create a recipe for disaster and a greater likelihood of vehicle collisions. Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day represent the some of the most dangerous times to be on the road.
Contact the Khonsari Law Group for Legal Representation
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, one of our attorneys can help. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. The experienced and resourceful attorneys at the Khonsari Law Group work to assist clients during the holidays and throughout the year.