Within the past few months local media has spotlighted the rise in “crimes of opportunity” such as “sliders” at gas stations. This is where an unsuspecting customer becomes the victim of a vehicle burglary by means of the offender gaining access and removing valuables from an unlocked vehicle … while the owner is standing just a few feet away pumping gas. The other story spotlighted recently was the rise in credit card scams perpetrated right at the ATMs. This scam is conducted by criminals attaching an electronic device to the ATM to record your credit card information which is later used to withdraw money and make unauthorized purchases. These incidents were brought to light due to video surveillance and reports by the victims of the crime. The banking institutions and gas stations both have security measures in place to attempt to prevent these crimes.
PGA National has preventive measures, such as access codes, in place to protect its residents from becoming victims of crimes as well. Recently we have seen a rise in the number of guests arriving to the gates and portraying themselves as a resident by presenting the officer with the resident’s security code. These security codes are intended for resident use only. Giving out your security code to a guest or contractor gives them, as well as anyone they may have further given the code to, unrestricted access to our community and bypasses the preventive measures set in place for your protection.
By deliberately circumventing the preventive measures set in place by security and the POA board, you are increasing your chances, as well as your neighbor’s chances, of becoming a victim of a crime of opportunity. Criminals are on the prowl every day for the next potential victim. It is our responsibility to remain vigilant in our resolve to keep that element out of PGA National. We all share in this responsibility. Not giving out your security code is just one more step to making PGA National that much safer.
As always, you are encouraged to never hesitate to report any suspicious vehicle or person(s) to security at 627-1600. Any information will be helpful. The smallest piece of information may be the biggest part of the solution.