How to protect seniors from summer burglaries

In summer, home burglaries increase, and those most at risk are self-sufficient seniors. Sometimes they live alone, with their families on vacation, and they become perfect targets for thieves, who gather all the information they need to successfully carry out their theft before committing any crime. But how can you protect seniors from summer burglaries? What countermeasures should you take? The most detailed, and also most useful, advice comes from a handbook prepared by the Carabinieri and the Italian Police.

Index of topics

Never open the door to a stranger

The first rule is also the simplest and most important. If someone knocks on your gate, front door, or even your house, and asks to come in, never open it. For any reason. If they present themselves as a water, electricity, gas, or postal company employee, they're definitely not: these companies never come to your home without advance notice.

If a package arrives

If the doorbell announces the arrival of an unexpected package or envelope, simply ask to leave it at the entrance, in the mailbox , or under the doormat. Even better, if you have a concierge, tell them to leave everything there. Again, you absolutely must not open the front door.

Police and Carabinieri must report

When a law enforcement representative (Carabinieri, Police, and Guardia di Finanza) arrives , they must always be in uniform, introduce themselves, and have an identification badge. Even in this case, it's best to receive them outside your front door. If you have any particular concerns, call 112.

The trap of fake religious organizations and charities

This is one of the most common scams used by thieves: appearing on behalf of a religious organization, parish, or charitable organization. They aren't credible, as they don't require prior phone call. If they persist, threaten to call 113, and if necessary, do so. Never open the door to anyone asking for money, donations, or gifts. A common scam involves a fake lawyer who arrives, asks for money for a client in need, and claims to be ready to accompany you to an ATM to withdraw cash. Reject them immediately.

Be careful with your phone

Someone calls, says they've got the wrong number, and then asks for your personal information. It's a scammer: hang up the phone, letting them know you're ready to report them. You also need to be careful online: all passwords must contain letters, uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. And in any case, personal and banking information numbers should not be circulated online.

Who offers his help on the street

You're out shopping . It's a scorching hot day, and you're starting to show signs of fatigue. A person approaches and offers to accompany you, picking up your shopping bags and parcels. A seemingly generous offer, but in reality, it's very dangerous, and should be rejected. And when walking down the street, be careful not to leave your purse or wallet on the left side of the sidewalk, within reach of a thief.

A known and trusted person informed of your movements

Especially in the summer, when the building empties out, it's a good idea to have a contact person at home. A neighbor or friend in the building who knows your whereabouts and can intervene if necessary.

Absence messages

No messages should be left announcing your absence, either on the door or at the intercom. It's best if no one knows the house is completely unoccupied for a period of time.

Don't face thieves alone

You return home, and before you enter, you realize that someone suspicious has broken into your apartment. Don't confront them personally; it's very dangerous, and you can't imagine their reaction, especially if they're not a professional. Call the local police or Carabinieri for assistance.