Crime and Older People Everyone worries about crime and the older adult is no exception. Older people are often targets for robbery, purse snatching, pick-pocketing, car theft, or home repair scams. Unfortunately, an older person is more likely to be hurt than someone who is younger but there are things that older people can do to protect themselves at home, in the streets, against fraud, abuse, and identity theft. At home it is important for older people to keep their windows and doors locked at all times. Never open the door without first identifying who is on the other side. Older people should never keep large amounts of cash in the home. Often family and friends are aware of this and take advantage of the situation. Finally, they should get to know their neighbors. Have someone watch out for them and any suspicious activities around the house. When away from home the elderly should never travel or walk alone and remain alert at all times. Never park in unsafe places like dark parking lots or streets. Women should carry their purse close to their body with the strap over the shoulder and across the chest making it more difficult for a thief to grab the purse and run. Most important, never resist a robber. The elderly should be reminded to always give the robber what they want to avoid being hurt if confronted. Ways to keep their money safety and prevent becoming a victim of fraud is also important for the elderly. Social Security and Pension checks should be direct deposited into bank accounts instead of coming into the mailbox. Money, wallet, and credit cards should be kept in an inside pocket making it more difficult for someone to grab them and run. Older people are often victims of scams by trusted friends and families. They should never give out their credit card or bank information to anyone online or over the telephone. The most common scam is