Personal property

Phones, bags and purses/wallets

• Theft is often committed by opportunists who take advantage of the unaware and uninformed.
• It’s important to protect your personal property at all times
• Try and wear your bag so that the strap is across your body, with the opening closest to your body. If you have a purse/wallet in your pocket be mindful of how easily accessible it is
• Pick-pocket thefts are on the rise, especially in shops, therefore keep small accessible items safe from thieves
• Keep your bag in sight at all times, preferably on your person if you can
• Try not to advertise your most valuable possessions, for instance, putting your bag or purse on a table or chair unattended, this is extremely attractive to would be thieves.
• It doesn’t take much to lose your bag or purse with all your cash, bank cards and ID, leaving you vulnerable to identity theft
• If your bag or purse is stolen, make sure you cancel bank cards as soon as possible.
• Take a good look at the contents of your bag/wallet/purse. For example, you may not need to take all of your credit/debit cards with you every time you go out
• If you are threatened in any way to hand over your property be mindful if it is replaceable – you aren’t!
• When walking on the pavement, walk towards oncoming traffic making it more difficult for thieves on wheels to pull up next to you
• Keep at least one hand free to use to defend yourself‌ if necessary