Black Friday is on 24 November this year and will no doubt have shoppers flocking to take advantage of bargain prices.
Many people will take advantage of online specials which have already started but there will also be a large number of shoppers bustling to get their festive season shopping done over the next few weeks.
“We are urging all shoppers to be vigilant at malls and shopping centres and to be aware that we generally see a spike in follow-home incidents at this time of year,” says Charnel Hattingh, Group head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services.
She says mall security guards will be on high alert during the period for pick pockets and other suspicious activity, but in many cases shoppers are followed home from the malls and hijacked in their driveways.
“Criminals are aware these shoppers have a car full of newly-purchased items and are generally easily distracted targets.” She advises shoppers to keep an eye out for any suspicious vehicles when exiting the shopping centre. “If you suspect you are being followed, drive immediately to your nearest police station or security provider guard house,” she adds.
“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 do not use a bag or do not take one along, keep your wallet or purse in the front pocket of your jacket or trousers.
“If you are drawing large amounts of cash, take someone along to keep watch while you are at the ATM and to keep a look out 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.
