North Texas is becoming a target for sophisticated international fraud rings which use cashier's checks to steal money from consumers. The scam uses legitimate businesses to gain victims’ confidence.

By BYRON HARRIS / WFAA-TV

http://www.wfaa.com/sharedcontent/dws/wfaa/localnews/investigates/stories/wfaa080925_lj_harris.aea4e6ae.html

When it comes to security nothing beats common sense. Hopefully you can find one or two tips here to help you live safer and more aware.

1. Park and walk in well-lit areas. 
2. Be alert. Don’t assume that you are always safe. Think about your safety everywhere. Your best protection is avoiding dangerous situations.
3. If someone tries to grab you, yell "FIRE!" because this gets more attention than shouting "Help!"
4. Use a money clip. If you are robbed, you may lose the money in the clip but will retain important credit cards and documents. 
5. Don’t wear excess jewelry. Reduce wallet and purse contents, particularly cards denoting affiliations, memberships, accounts, etc. 
6. If you carry a purse, keep it close to your body at all times.  If you have a wallet, keep it in an inside jacket pocket or front pocket.  Try not to carry more cash than you need.
7. Let go if your bag is snatched. No amount of money is worth getting hurt over. If someone grabs your purse or wallet, don't fight or run after them. 
8. In any crowded situation, be aware of any crowding or jostling, even if it appears innocent. This is often a ploy by pickpockets to distract you. 
9. If a friend or taxi driver takes you home, ask them to wait until you're safely inside. 
10. Don't go inside your home if it appears that there has been an unauthorized entry. Go to a neighbors home and wait for the police.
11. If a stranger asks to use your phone, have him wait outside while you make the call. 
12. If you have car trouble, raise the hood and stay inside your car. If a stranger wants to help, have him or her call for help. Don’t leave your car.
13. Keep your car doors locked and never pick up hitchhikers.
14. If you ride the bus or rail be aware of their schedules so you don't have to wait any longer than necessary at a bus stop or station. Try to sit near the driver / conductor. Learn the location of emergency alarms and exits.
15. If you take money out of an ATM, choose a machine in a well-lit location. 
16. If you think you're being followed, turn around to see if someone's there instead of being taken by surprise.  Walk to the nearest store or office where there are other people around and let someone know you're being followed.
17. Make sure all windows and doors in your home are locked, especially if you are home alone. Always double check ALL of your doors and windows after a contractor or stranger has been inside your home.
18. Never give the impression that you are home alone if strangers telephone or come to the door. 
19. Stay awake and alert when using public transportation.
20. Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in any situation, leave. 
21. Don't cross the road from between parked cars or in front of a bus because that can make it hard for other drivers to see you.
22. Don't walk in isolated places at night.  If you have to, wear light-colored clothing and carry a flashlight.  You may also want to carry a personal alarm siren or pepper spray.  Please consult local regulations on personal defense sprays.
23. Walk confidently at a steady pace on the side of the street facing traffic, close to the curb. Avoid doorways, bushes, and alleys.
24. Walk to your car with keys in your hand.
25. When traveling, dress casually; dress down where appropriate. Wear clothes and shoes that allow freedom of movement.

We cannot always be with you everywhere you go, but we would be happy to visit with you about protecting your home or business.