Crime has progressed beyond simple jewelry robberies. As a matter of fact, robbers have gotten so smooth and shystery in this day and age, it's easy for just about any of us to be misled to give up some of our personal security information.

That's why we, here at BC Custom Jewelry, want to remind you how to protect yourselves from thieves. As they say, it's better to be safe than sorry.

1. Never click on links in emails that are asking for your username, password, bank account, and other sensitive information. Always take a trip to the website itself by typing the Web address into your browser and login that way.

2. Try to stick to only using websites that use encryption when inputting your credit or debit card information. FYI: Look for https (the "s" is the important part) in the URL or a lock symbol on your Web browser.

3. Some of these thieves are highly resourceful. They send out emails that appear to be from a friend of yours - or even your bank, asking for your personal info, or just for you to confirm it. Send your friend or the bank an email back, using the contact information that you have for them and double check the validity.

Nine times out of ten, if it doesn't sound right, it isnt. If you feel like you should change your passwords on any of your accounts, it is better to just follow your instinct.