In our community, criminals are targeting parked vehicles, breaking windows, and stealing valuables left inside. These crimes happen quickly and can lead to financial loss, identity theft, and serious inconvenience for victims.

Recently, Patriot played a key role in preventing fraud linked to a smash-and-grab incident. Two individuals were apprehended by local police while attempting to cash large stolen checks using a victim’s recently stolen identity, including their driver’s license and account information. Armed with this information, criminals often don disguises and conduct transactions through drive-up lanes, to impersonate their victims. These incidents underscore the importance of staying alert and taking proactive steps to safeguard your belongings and financial security.

What Is a “Smash and Grab”?

A “smash and grab” occurs when thieves break into vehicles—often by smashing windows—and steal valuables such as:

• Purses and wallets
• Checkbooks
• Social Security cards
• Membership cards
• Driver’s licenses

These crimes frequently happen in areas where people may not want to carry personal belongings, such as:

• Gyms
• Sporting events
• Playgrounds
• Community festivals
• Shopping centers

Once thieves have stolen your identification or financial documents, they often attempt to use them financial institutions to withdraw funds or cash fraudulent checks in your name.

How to Protect Yourself

Thieves target easy opportunities, but you can reduce your risk by following these precautions:

    1. Never Leave Valuables in Your Vehicle

Leaving a purse, wallet, or other important items in plain sight makes you a prime target. If you must leave items behind, lock them in your trunk before reaching your destination.

    2. Park in Well-Lit, High-Traffic Areas

Thieves prefer dark, secluded spots where they can act unnoticed. Choose parking spaces near entrances, under streetlights, or in monitored lots.

    3. Lock Your Doors and Roll Up Windows

While determined thieves may still break in, locked doors and windows can slow them down and make your vehicle less appealing.

    4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Be mindful of suspicious individuals in parking lots. If something feels off, trust your instincts and report unusual activity to security or law enforcement.

    5. Act Quickly if Your Belongings Are Stolen

If your purse, wallet, driver’s license, or checkbook is stolen:

• Report the theft immediately to your bank or credit union to prevent fraudulent transactions.
• File a police report to document the crime.
• Monitor your accounts for any unauthorized activity.

If you’re a Patriot Federal Credit Union member, contact us right away so we can place alerts on your account to prevent unauthorized access.

For additional information, visit our website at: patriotfcu.org/blog/protect-yourself-from-smash-and-grab-thefts/