Most women are aware of the major crimes that dominate headlines, but there are many lesser-known offenses that can impact everyday life. These little known crimes often fly under the radar, yet they can have serious consequences. Understanding them is important for personal safety and financial well-being. Knowing about these offenses can help women avoid becoming victims or inadvertently breaking the law. Here are thirteen little known crimes women rarely hear about—some of which might surprise you.
1. Mail Theft
Stealing mail is more common than many realize. Thieves target mailboxes to snatch checks, credit cards, or personal information. This little known crime can lead to identity theft and financial loss. Women who shop online or receive sensitive documents by mail should be especially cautious, using locked mailboxes or pickup services when possible.
2. Porch Piracy
Porch piracy is the theft of packages delivered to your doorstep. It’s a crime that has grown in tandem with the popularity of online shopping. Most women don’t realize how often this happens until it’s too late. Installing a camera or requesting signature delivery are simple ways to deter porch pirates.
3. Catfishing for Profit
Catfishing isn’t just about fake romance. Some scammers create false identities online to trick women into sending money or sharing private information. This little known crime can lead to emotional distress and financial damage. Always verify online contacts before sharing details or money.
4. Gas Pump Skimming
Gas pump skimming is a sneaky way criminals steal credit card data. They install hidden devices on gas pumps to capture card information during transactions. Women who pay at the pump are vulnerable, especially at stations with outdated machines. Select pumps near the store entrance and verify for tampering before inserting your card.
5. Rental Scam Fraud
Rental scams target women searching for apartments or vacation homes. Scammers advertise fake listings, collect deposits, then disappear. This little known crime is hard to spot because the listings often look legitimate. Always see the property in person and use secure payment methods for deposits.
6. Revenge Porn Distribution
Revenge porn occurs when someone shares private images without consent. While laws vary, it’s a crime in many places. Current or former partners often target women. If this happens, seek help immediately and report it to the authorities. Protecting your digital privacy can help prevent this offense.
7. Cyberstalking
Cyberstalking involves persistent harassment using digital devices. It’s a little known crime that can be hard to prove but has serious impacts on mental health. Women should keep records of unwanted messages and block harassers. In many places, laws now specifically address cyberstalking.
8. Check Washing
Check washing is when thieves steal checks, use chemicals to erase details, and rewrite them for larger sums. Women who still use paper checks are at risk. Mailing checks from secure locations and monitoring bank accounts can help prevent this crime.
9. Unauthorized Credit Card Surcharges
Some retailers add illegal surcharges to credit card transactions without notice. It’s a little known crime because the amounts are often small and go unnoticed. Women who shop frequently with cards should review receipts and dispute unauthorized charges promptly.
10. Charity Fraud
Charity fraud involves scammers posing as legitimate charities to solicit donations. Women are often targeted after disasters or during giving seasons. Always research charities using resources like Charity Navigator before donating. Giving directly through official websites is safest.
11. Fake Debt Collection
Fraudulent debt collectors use scare tactics to pressure women into paying debts they don’t owe. They may have some personal information, making them seem legitimate. Never provide payment or more details until you verify the collector through official channels.
12. Social Security Number Harvesting
Some scams are designed to trick women into revealing their Social Security numbers. This little known crime can occur through phishing emails, fake job offers, or fraudulent calls. Guard your personal data and verify all requests before sharing sensitive information.
13. Ghost Employment Schemes
Ghost employment occurs when someone adds fake employees to a company’s payroll or claims unemployment benefits for non-existent workers. Women in HR or payroll roles may be targeted to participate unknowingly. Always verify new hires and payroll changes carefully.
Staying Informed and Protected
Understanding little known crimes women rarely hear about is essential for staying safe and financially secure. Many of these offenses exploit trust or the fast pace of daily life, making them easy to overlook. By being aware, women can take practical steps to avoid becoming victims.
What steps do you take to guard against little known crimes? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments!
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