As people continue their festive season present-buying, it is also the time that criminals target shoppers.<\/p>\n
Theunis Kotze, general manager of ADT inland region, urges shoppers to be cautious when they visit malls over this period and to keep their wits, and belongings, about them.<\/p>
\u201cThe majority of cases we see are where shoppers are followed home from the malls and hijacked in their driveways.<\/p>\n
\u201cCriminals are aware these shoppers have a car full of newly-purchased items and are generally easy, distracted targets.<\/p>
\u201cAwareness is your most effective defence so keep an eye out for any suspicious vehicles that may be following you and, if in doubt, drive to your nearest police station or security provider guard house,\u201d advised Kotze.<\/p>\n
He also reminds drivers to remember the general hijacking safety tips such as waiting in the road for the gate to open before driving in, and making sure the gate is closed properly behind your vehicle before getting out.<\/p>\n
Regarding staying safe in the malls, Kotze encouraged shoppers to carry as little as possible in handbags or pockets and rather leave unnecessary bank or store cards and large amounts of cash at home.<\/p>\n
\u201cA packed clothing store or supermarket is prime hunting-ground for a pick-pocket or bag-snatcher.<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd, never leave a handbag, purse or wallet in a trolley.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you don\u2019t use a bag or do not take one along, keep your wallet or purse in the front pocket of your jacket or trousers,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Drawing money at an ATM also needs to be done with care.<\/p>\n
Kotze advised the following:<\/p>\n
Your safety outside the mall is just as important as it is inside, he added.<\/p>\n
\u201cBefore you exit the mall, have your keys ready so that no time is wasted to get your purchases and yourself into your car.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis also means that you\u2019ll be able to hold onto your handbag as you walk.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf someone does try to snatch your handbag, let it go.<\/p>\n
\u201cDo not resist or fight back,\u201d he advised.<\/p>\n
Lastly he suggests avoiding shopping late at night.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile the idea of a quieter shopping mall may seem appealing, you are more vulnerable in the car parks, mall bathrooms and the likes.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you have no other choice, be vigilant and report any suspicious individuals to the mall security.<\/p>\n
\u201cLet\u2019s all work together to make this festive season an incident-free one,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n