Dec 106 min read

PROJECT: THE 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON (PART 9) - SAFETY IN SHOPPING MALLS

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Christmas shopping often involves crowded malls, bustling streets, and a heightened risk of theft or scams.

Following practical safety measures can significantly reduce risks and enjoy a stress-free festive season.

INSIDE A SHOPPING MALL:

STAY ALERT:
- Be aware of your surroundings and the people near you.
- Avoid distractions like looking at your phone while walking.
SECURE BELONGINGS:
- Keep bags zipped and close to your body.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use cards where possible.
MINIMISE CASH:
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Use cards or mobile payment options like tap-to-pay, which are safer and more convenient.
DISTRIBUTE CASH:
If you must carry cash, divide it between different secure places (e.g., wallet, inner pocket) to reduce the risk of losing everything in case of theft.
KEEP YOUR WALLET/PURSE SECURE:
- Store your wallet in a front pocket or a crossbody bag with a zipper.
- Avoid back pockets, as they are easy targets for pickpockets.
CARRY ESSENTIALS ONLY:
- Avoid overloading your wallet. Keep only one ID, one card, and a small amount of cash. Leave unnecessary documents or extra credit cards at home.
AVOID FLASHING IT:
- Do not pull out your wallet unnecessarily, especially in crowded or public areas, as this may attract attention.
BE MINDFUL OF YOUR BAG:
- If you use a bag, keep it in front of you and secure at all times.
AVOID DISPLAYING VALUABLES:
- Do not wear expensive jewelry or show off gadgets like smartphones unnecessarily.
PLAN:
- Have a list and plan to minimize the time spent wandering around.
CHILDREN:
- If shopping with children, ensure they know your phone number and what to do if separated.
- Use identification wristbands for younger kids.
AVOID ISOLATED AREAS:
- Stick to well-lit, populated areas, and avoid empty corridors or parking levels.
REPORT SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOUR:
- Notify mall security if you notice anything unusual or feel unsafe.

ATM SAFETY:

CHOOSE A SAFE LOCATION:
- Use ATMs located inside malls, banks, or other well-lit, secure areas.
- Avoid isolated or dimly lit machines, especially at night.
BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS:
- Look around before approaching an ATM.
- If you notice someone loitering nearby or acting suspiciously, leave and find another ATM.
SHIELD YOUR PIN:
- Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN to prevent anyone from observing it.
AVOID ASSISTANCE FROM STRANGERS:
- Never accept help from anyone at the ATM, even if they appear friendly or official.
- Criminals may pose as helpers to steal your card or cash.
TAKE YOUR RECEIPT:
- Do not leave your transaction receipts at the ATM, as they can contain sensitive information.
LIMIT WITHDRAWALS:
- Withdraw only what you need and avoid making multiple transactions in one visit.
USE CONTACTLESS OPTIONS:
- Whenever possible, use ATMs with tap-to-pay or cardless withdrawal options for added security.
ADDITIONAL ADVICE:
- If your wallet or card is stolen, report it immediately to your bank or card issuer to block access.
- For lost cash, there's limited recovery, so prevention is key.
- Report suspicious activity at ATMs to mall or bank security and the authorities.

SAFETY OUTSIDE A SHOPPING MALL:

PARKING LOT SAFETY:
- Park close to entrances or under good lighting.
- Avoid leaving valuables visible in your car. Secure them in the trunk before reaching your destination.
- Be cautious when loading shopping bags into your vehicle. Keep an eye on your surroundings.
WALKING TO YOUR CAR:
- Have your car keys ready before leaving the mall to avoid fumbling at the car.
- Walk confidently and purposefully to your car. If you feel unsafe, request a security escort.
BE WARY OF SCAMS:
- Ignore strangers approaching you with "sob stories" or offers of help.

SAFETY ON YOUR WAY HOME:

TRAVEL IN GROUPS:
- If possible, shop with friends or family and leave together.
AVOID LATE-NIGHT SHOPPING:
- Try to complete shopping during the day when it’s safer.
STAY ON MAIN ROADS:
- Use well-lit, populated streets to travel home.
- Avoid shortcuts through deserted areas.
CHECK YOUR SURROUNDINGS:
- Ensure no one is following you when leaving the mall or driving home.
- If suspicious, drive to a police station or crowded area.
SECURE YOUR HOME UPON ARRIVAL:
- Lock your car immediately after parking.
- Carry bags in one trip or enlist help to avoid leaving the door open multiple times.

CELLPHONE SAFETY:

BEFORE LEAVING HOME:
- Backup your data:
  - Ensure your phone is backed up to a secure cloud service. This helps in recovering data if the phone is lost or stolen.
- Enable security features:
  - Activate biometric locks (fingerprint or facial recognition) or a strong PIN/passcode.
  - Install "Find My Device" or similar tracking apps for Android or iPhone to locate your phone if it’s lost.
WHILE OUT SHOPPING:
- Keep it secure:
  - Store your phone in a front pocket, crossbody bag, or secure pocket with a zipper. Avoid leaving it in easily accessible places like back pockets or open bags.
- Be vigilant:
  - Avoid using your phone in crowded areas where pickpockets may operate. Keep it close and out of sight when not in use.
- Limit usage:
  - Don’t use your phone while walking or in vulnerable areas, as distractions can make you a target.
IN MALLS AND PUBLIC AREAS:
- Avoid public Wi-Fi:
  - If you must use public Wi-Fi, ensure you’re connected through a VPN to prevent hackers from accessing your data.
- Disable Bluetooth and NFC:
  - Turn off Bluetooth and Near Field Communication (NFC) unless necessary to prevent unauthorized access.
- Beware of shoulder surfing:
  - When typing passwords or entering PINs, shield your screen to avoid someone looking over your shoulder.
AT ATMs OR PAYMENT COUNTERS:
- Do not leave it unattended:
  - Avoid placing your phone on counters, shelves, or tables where it can be easily snatched.
- Be wary of scams:
  - Do not accept help from strangers offering assistance with payment apps or digital wallets.
WHILE TRAVELLING HOME:
- Stay alert:
  - Avoid using your phone at traffic lights or while commuting if it makes you an easy target for snatch-and-grab thefts.
- Use tracking apps:
  - Keep your location services on for tracking apps like "Find My iPhone" or Google’s "Find My Device."
IN CASE OF LOSS OR THEFT:
- Lock your phone remotely:
  - Use tracking apps to remotely lock your device to prevent unauthorized access.
- Report it immediately:
  - File a police report and inform your service provider to block your phone’s SIM card.
ADDITIONAL ADVICE:
- Regularly update your phone’s software for the latest security patches.
- Install anti-malware or cybersecurity apps to monitor and protect against threats.
- Avoid oversharing on social media to protect your privacy and security.

Continue to stay vigilant!

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