Crime Prevention Starts With Awareness

2026 Crime Prevention Month

The Statesville Police Department (SPD) is joining communities across the country in recognizing October as Crime Prevention Month. This year, Statesville’s theme is “Crime Prevention Starts with Awareness.”

Crime prevention is not limited to locking doors or reporting suspicious activity. Today’s risks can also appear on social media, through phone calls and text messages, in online marketplaces, and in products that may not be what they appear to be. Throughout October, SPD will share information to help residents recognize these risks and make informed safety decisions.

Preventing Social Media Harms

Social media helps people stay connected, but it can also expose users to cyberbullying, scams, harmful content, illegal drug sales, and unhealthy patterns of use.

Residents can reduce these risks by reviewing privacy settings, limiting the personal information they share, blocking and reporting harmful accounts, and talking regularly with children and teenagers about their online experiences.

Prescription medications should only be obtained from a licensed medical provider and pharmacy, never through a social media account or unverified online seller.

Fighting Fraud and Scams

Scammers often create a sense of urgency and impersonate government agencies, law enforcement officers, financial institutions, utility providers, businesses, or even someone the victim knows.

Be cautious when someone unexpectedly requests money, account information, passwords, verification codes, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Do not rely on the telephone number or link provided in the message. Instead, contact the organization directly using a trusted telephone number or official website.

Learn more about recognizing fraud and scams at www.ncpc.org/fraud/.

Stopping the Harm of Counterfeit Products

Counterfeit products are imitations that are presented as genuine goods. They can include clothing, electronics, vehicle parts, cosmetics, medications, and many other items.

Before making a purchase, research the seller and be cautious of prices that appear too good to be true. Misspelled labels, poor-quality packaging, missing safety information, and unfamiliar sellers can be warning signs. Medications should always be obtained from a licensed pharmacy.

Learn more at www.ncpc.org/companiesagainstcounterfeits/.

Practicing Firearm Safety

Firearm safety includes responsible ownership, secure storage, and age-appropriate conversations with children.

Firearms should be stored securely when not in use and kept inaccessible to children and other unauthorized individuals. Children should also know the four steps to follow if they encounter a firearm:

1. Stop.

2. Don’t touch.

3. Get away.

4. Tell an adult.

Additional firearm safety resources are available at www.ncpc.org/resources/mcgruffgunsafety/.

Awareness Leads to Action

Everyone can contribute to crime prevention. Staying informed, discussing safety with family members, protecting personal information, and reporting suspected criminal activity are meaningful steps toward a safer community.