Shopping is a fun and relaxing activity for many people, but it can also expose us to some safety risks if we are not careful. As we approach the end of the month, many people will be going out to do their monthly shopping.

“We are urging all shoppers to be vigilant at malls and shopping centres and to be aware that we criminals are opportunistic and always looking for opportunities to strike,” says Charnel Hattingh, Group head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group.  

Here are five common mistakes we all make when shopping and how to avoid them:

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. Not checking if our car is locked or if the windows are rolled up. This can invite opportunistic criminals to break into our car and steal our purchases or personal items. Wearing expensive jewellery, watches or accessories. This can attract unwanted attention and make us look like a wealthy target for robbers. 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. 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.

“When in the mall or centre carry as little as possible in your handbag or pockets and rather leave unnecessary bank or store cards and large amounts of cash at home. A packed clothing store or supermarket is the prime hunting ground for a pick-pocket or bag-snatcher. And, never leave a handbag, purse or wallet in a trolley. If you don’t use a bag or do not take one along, keep your wallet or purse in the front pocket of your jacket or trousers. Criminals are also targeting phones so make sure your phone is out of sight either in a zipped-up bag or in a front pocket.”

“If you are drawing large amounts of cash, take someone along to keep watch while you are at the ATM and to keep a lookout for any suspicious individuals or vehicles on the way home. If you can avoid drawing large sums of cash, do so. Electronic payments are the safer route,” says Hattingh.

Your safety outside the mall is just as important as it is inside, she adds. “Before you exit the mall, have your keys ready so that no time is wasted to get your purchases and yourself into the car. This also means that you’ll be able to hold onto your handbag as you walk. If someone does try to snatch your handbag, let it go. Do not resist or fight back,” she advises.

Lastly, Hattingh suggests avoiding shopping late at night. “While the idea of a quieter shopping mall may seem appealing, you are more vulnerable in the car parks, mall bathrooms and the like. If you have no other choice, be vigilant and report any suspicious individuals to the mall security. Let’s make our shopping experiences happy and crime-free,” she concludes. 

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Compiled on behalf of Fidelity Services Group, by Cathy Findley PR, for media queries contact Jacqui Moloi at 071 764 8233 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.