Crime warning for South African shoppers
Increased festive season spending often translates into increased crime at South Africa’s shopping malls as criminals target visible high-value purchases and distracted consumers.
Tarina Vlok, managing director at Elite Risk Acceptances, and Molebatsi Langa, head of retail strategic accounts at Old Mutual Insure, outlined consumers’ most significant risks and how to mitigate them.
Elite Risk Acceptances is a high-net-worth insurer and a subsidiary of Old Mutual Insure.
“While the holidays should be a time of celebration, heightened risks mean consumers need to be extra vigilant,” said Vlok. “Simple precautions can go a long way in protecting your home, car, and valuables.”
Langa emphasises that staying aware and taking proactive steps is critical to avoiding theft.
Two recent high-profile jewellery heists, one at Clearwater Mall and another at the Winifred Mandela Precinct in Bryanston, highlight the growing risks consumers face.
In both incidents, thieves made off with a substantial amount, serving as stark reminders of the need to stay vigilant.
“The combination of bustling shopping centres, distracted consumers, and visible high-value purchases makes for a perfect storm,” Vlok said.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), hijackings in Gauteng jumped by 14.4% during the third quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year.
Nationwide, 60 cars are stolen daily, with the number increasing by 14% in the Western Cape and 11% in the Northwest. Property-related crimes, such as the theft of smartphones, jewellery, and other prized items, are also on the rise.
Shopping malls and petrol stations have become hotspots for opportunistic criminals targeting cash registers and customers’ belongings.
Vlok emphasised that being distracted by your phone while shopping can make you an easy target.
“Using social media in a mall environment often means you’re not able to pay full attention to your surroundings, which can increase the risk of your handbag being snatched or purchased items stolen from your trolley.”
She also warned against geotagging posts or photographs, urging people to avoid feeling the need to show off their holiday purchases.
“As tempting as it is to show off holiday purchases online, holiday goers need to remember that criminals can use details in shared images to track whereabouts.”
Molebatsi Langa, Head of Retail Strategic Accounts at Old Mutual Insure, highlights the importance of general safety during the holiday season.
“Simple precautions – like locking up your home, staying alert while shopping, and being cautious on the road – are key to ensuring a stress-free festive season.
Tips to protect your valuables
The festive season presents various risks, from protecting valuable gifts under the tree to staying vigilant about safety at home or on holiday.
Below are Langa’s and Vlok’s top tips for keeping your holiday safe and secure.
- Provide your insurer with proof of purchase for high-value items
After purchasing high-value gifts, it’s important to inform your insurer. Be sure to provide your insurer proof of purchase to make the claims process easier.
“Documentation is key,” Vlok stressed. “Providing your insurer with the right paperwork ensures you’re covered if something happens.”
- Keep your car and belongings secure
Leaving valuables visible in your car can make it an easy target. Langa advised that consumers keep bags, phones, and wallets out of sight.
Also, anti-theft devices like jamming-proof key holders should be considered to guard against remote jamming.
Before heading out, place any valuables in the boot to avoid drawing unwanted attention, especially when parking in busy areas.
When exploring a new city or travelling in unfamiliar areas, it’s a good idea to keep your backpack with you at all times, Vlok said.
She also suggested that to minimise the risk of mobile theft, consider putting a lanyard on your phone or keeping it in a place other than a visible pocket.
- Be mindful of your surroundings in parking areas
Hijackings and remote jamming are common in parking areas, especially at shopping malls. “Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid distractions,” advised Vlok.
Modern criminals use advanced methods like remote jamming to steal from vehicles. Consider investing in anti-theft devices to protect your car from these types of crimes.
“Taking precautions, like using a jamming-proof key holder, can save you from a lot of hassle.”
- Keep your home secure
Unattended homes are also prime targets for criminals during the holiday season. Langa recommended that homeowners travelling and unable to arrange a house sitter should install timers on strategic interior lights and use day-and-night bulbs for exterior lights.
Furthermore, simple precautions like turning off the water mains and keeping your roof clear of leaves, branches, or other debris that could cause water to pool can help prevent significant damage.
Depending on your location, thunderstorms and heavy rains are common during summer and can cause structural damage.
- Drive safely
Before hitting the road, ensure your car is in top condition. Check tyres, brakes, and fluid levels, and plan your route in advance.
Pack essentials such as a first aid kit and jumper cables and take regular breaks during long trips.
“The festive season is meant to be a time of joy and celebration,” said Vlok. “By taking these precautions, you can avoid unnecessary stress and focus on what truly matters – spending quality time with loved ones.”
“A little preparation goes a long way. Whether it’s safeguarding your home, car, or valuables, staying proactive ensures a safer and more enjoyable holiday for everyone,” Langa added
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