Remember that “opportunity makes the thief.” Before you leave home, look in the mirror—is your jewelry attracting the attention of someone waiting for an easy target, and could it provoke a potential offender to attack?
Also check your wallet or handbag. Are you carrying more cash than you need? Do you really have to take all your important documents and keys with you, and do you have to keep everything in one place?
When you enter a building, keep your handbag and shopping bags close to you, and put your wallet somewhere safe so that it is not visible to everyone. It is best to distribute your money among different pockets—but never put it in the back pockets of your trousers.
If you have to walk alone along the streets late in the day (in the evening or at night), TAKE PARTICULAR CARE! Avoid narrow streets, passageways and overgrown areas, especially when they are unlit or poorly lit. Avoid darkened passages between buildings and areas behind buildings. Remain alert at all times, even when you have already made it safely home. Prepare your keys in advance so that, if necessary, you can quickly take shelter in the stairwell or your apartment.
In the event of an attack, be ready to shout as loudly as you can, thereby alerting people nearby.
REMEMBER ALSO:
- never strike up chance acquaintances in establishments, on the street or in a shop. A handsome and well-mannered man, or an attractive woman, may be a member of a criminal group. Recently, even children have been used to lure potential victims;
- when shopping, always keep an eye on your wallet, bag, shopping bags and similar items;
- beware of pickpockets and watch out for so-called “artificial crowds” in shops, squares, market halls and on the street;
- avoid using any suspicious services offered on the street, such as fortune-telling, gambling, or bargain opportunities to buy or sell foreign currency, gold and similar items.
REMEMBER: BE CAUTIOUS IN EVERY SITUATION AND AVOID ALL KINDS OF “BARGAINS.” EVEN DURING THE DAY, THE STREET CLAIMS THE NAIVE AS ITS VICTIMS!