Safety tips to consider when shopping at malls
Here are some common mistakes we make when we are out shopping and some ways to be more mindful.
We cannot believe that we are already in the last quarter of 2023!
It feels like just yesterday we were swooning over our New Year's resolutions. And with the last quarter of the year comes the plans for the end of year celebrations.
Because, as South Africans, even when times are tough, we always find a way to make ends meet.
And this is why we felt it important to share some common mistakes that many South African shoppers make.
These were compiled by the esteemed security company Fidelity ADT. It's a given that criminals are attracted to malls and public spaces, because of the chaos of the surroundings, they can act quickly to commit a crime.
This is why it is important to always remain vigilant. Here are some common mistakes made by shoppers:
1. Being distracted by our phones, music or conversations. This can make us lose sight of our surroundings and our belongings, and make us an easy target for thieves or scammers.
2. Not checking if our car is locked or if the windows are rolled up. This can invite opportunistic criminals to break into our cars and steal our purchases or personal items.
3. Wearing expensive jewellery, watches or accessories. This can attract unwanted attention and make us look like a wealthy target for robbers.
4. Carrying too much cash or using unsafe payment methods. This can expose us to the risk of losing our money or having our card details stolen.
5. Leaving our bags unattended or open. We should always keep our bags close to us and zipped up, and never leave them on the floor, on a bench or in a cart. (Fidelity ADT newsletter)
You may read the above and think, these are all stock-standard things that we all should be aware of as South Africans, but the truth is you would be surprised at how many people take this for granted.
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When shopping, make sure that you carry as little as possible. If you don't need to, don't carry a bag, because remember you may be carrying many shopping bags at some point.
Keep your phones zipped or locked away and try not to flaunt your devices. Shopping in busy stores is a prime breeding ground for criminals.
If you are drawing large sums of cash from an ATM, make sure you have someone with you, more than one. Be aware of vehicles around you and people who may be watching. The safer route is to do your banking online, but if that's not possible, drive to a police station if you feel you are being followed.
Some people shop later to avoid the crowds but this might be the perfect time for criminals to pounce. If you have to shop then, be aware of your surroundings.
When you are exiting the mall or shopping centre, have your keys ready to open your car and hold your bag close to your body.
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