Mounties advise to avoid becoming a target by criminals

This article was last updated on April 16, 2022

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Nova Scotia RCMP are warning you that your trash can be a target for criminals in the New Year.

Consumers are not the only ones shopping after the holidays. Criminals go through neighbourhoods looking for electronics or other gift boxes left curb side for garbage collection and then they target those homes for a later break-in.

RCMP warn that criminals will also scan online looking for updates on social media. ‘We’ve had cases where individuals have posted what they received for Christmas on social media sites, only later to come home and find their home has been burglarized,’ says Sgt. Brigdit Leger.

Here are some tips to consider:

∙ Disposing of boxes from electronics? Consider cutting the boxes into small pieces and taping/tying them together with blank cardboard facing outward.
∙ Dont make it easy for criminals. Do not throw away television or other electronics packaging with the box intact and the product description showing.
∙ Avoid placing your garbage or recyclables at the curb days in advance. That signals to criminals you are not home. Arrange to have a trusted friend or family member place the items curb side at the appropriate time.
∙ Although you may want to share the news with others, you should avoid posting updates of the gifts you received or pictures of those electronics.
∙ Check your social media status. Have you posted publicly that you will be away from your home for a period of time like a vacation? By posting this information it may leave your home vulnerable to thieves.