AUSTIN, Texas — According to law enforcement officials, now is the time to keep your guard up. Officials say robbers are out to steal money through "jugging," and several incidents have already been reported throughout Central Texas.
Sgt. Don Holland with the Round Rock Police Department said the term "jugging" refers to a crime where thieves wait for people who withdrawal cash from banks and ATMs, follow them and then rob them of the cash.
"What they'll do is they'll follow the people once they leave the bank and they look for opportunities to burglarize them, burglarize their vehicles or rob them directly once they leave their vehicle," Holland said.
Attacks can get violent. Holland said there are preventive measures to take to ensure you and your loved ones are safe. The first: be on the lookout for vehicles with dark-tinted windows or no visibility of the driver and passengers inside.
"If you notice vehicles arriving at the bank with no occupants going inside the bank, that could be a clue. Also, the vehicles like to change parking spots to get better views. The vehicles have multiple occupants. Those are some of the things you want to look out for," Holland said.
When walking out of a bank or driving away from the ATM, police say you need to be aware of your surroundings. Always conceal money when leaving because bank bags, envelopes and coin boxes can draw attention. Also, make sure you don't leave any money visibly in your car.
If you are being targeted for a potential jugging attack, another indicator is that you're being followed. If you sense you're being followed, call 911 and stay on the line with the dispatcher.
"Give them the make and model of your car, your location and direction that you're going. Also give directions of the person that's following you. That way, a patrol officer can locate you and help you if that's the case," Holland said.
Police recommend you change the route you may normally take after leaving the bank.
If you're a victim of a jugging incident, law enforcement officials say to call 911 and report the crime so detectives can investigate and try to get your money back.
"That includes packages on your porch. That includes anything that you're doing this holiday season. Just just be aware of your surroundings and just take care of yourselves," Holland said.
Learn more about reporting a crime on the Round Rock Police Departments website.