Holiday reminders from the Fulton Police Department

The seal of the Fulton Police Department
The seal of the Fulton Police Department


The Fulton Police Department published some reminders to keep in mind this holiday season.

The amount of scam callers tend to increase around this time of year. One common type of scam call is about a family member that has been arrested and needs bail paid through gift cards, according to the FPD Facebook page. A bond can't be paid anywhere through gift cards.

Another common type of scam call is about overdue taxes or traffic tickets, where the caller will also ask for gift cards. These scam callers will often impersonate a police officer in an attempt to bring more credibility to the scam.

The last kind of scam the FPD is warning about is about sending intimate pictures to a stranger through social media. These pictures are often used by scammers as blackmail in an attempt to receive money.

The Fulton Police Department encourages those contacted or harassed by scammers to call the department.

The department has also been warning citizens about porch pirates, which become more common during the holiday season. A porch pirate is a criminal who steals packages left on a porch.

The tips given by the FPD to prevent porch pirates include:

• Track your packages with a tracking number to remain aware of when it arrives. If you are unable to take the package inside right away, consider asking a neighbor or friend to watch the package.

• Use a video doorbell to see when someone approaches your door or porch. Video doorbells also help deter thieves, according to the FPD Facebook page.

• Have packages delivered to an Amazon Locker or use the Amazon Key service. Packages could also be delivered to your workplace.

• Use a porch lockbox or require your signature when a delivery arrives.

• Make it clear you have a home security system, as this will decrease the likelihood of someone attempting to steal items from your porch.