In shopping centres and at marketplaces, it is easy to fall victim to pickpockets. Let us try to avoid particularly crowded places while also paying attention to whether we have found ourselves in a so-called artificially created crowd, where losing one’s wallet is all too easy.
Let us remember not to show large amounts of cash when paying for purchases. We should ensure that our handbag is always at the front, within our sight, while our wallet is kept in a deeper front pocket. Do not leave valuable items or documents in outer garments, which we are more likely to take off in spring and often place, for example, in a shopping trolley, from which we move away while shopping. Thieves readily take advantage of such situations.
We should also remain especially alert and follow similar safety precautions on public transport and in car parks near shopping centres. We must remember to close car windows securely and not leave inside any items that could tempt a potential thief. If we fall victim to theft, we should report it immediately to the nearest police station.
Before the holidays, many companies offer “quick cash loans” for holiday shopping. If you decide to take out such a loan, be sure to check whether the lender is honest and carefully analyse the agreement, interest rate and repayment deadlines—to avoid problems later.
Let us remember that caution and following the principle of limited trust will help us safely get through the pre-holiday shopping rush.