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Hello Resident As many people use the beautiful city we live in over the festive period I wanted to raise awareness of a current trend which is being reported to the Police. Pickpocketing is a common issue in busy city centres, especially in tourist-heavy areas. These people can have a huge impact on your festive season. Here are some crime prevention tips to reduce the risk of being a victim of pickpocketing in the UK: 1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings Avoid Distractions: Pickpockets often target people who are distracted, such as those looking at their phones, maps, or engaging in conversations. Be mindful of your surroundings.Scan the Area: Watch for people who seem to be loitering or moving unusually close to crowds. Pickpockets often work in groups and rely on distractions.2. Secure Your Valuables Keep Items Close: Use zippered or buttoned pockets and bags. Avoid carrying valuables in easily accessible places, like back pockets or open bags.Use Anti-Theft Bags: Consider using cross-body bags with zippers or anti-theft backpacks with lockable compartments, cut-resistant straps, and hidden pockets.Money Belts: Wear an under-clothing money belt or hidden pouch for cash, credit cards, and identification, especially when visiting crowded locations or tourist spots.3. Avoid Flashing Wealth Conceal Cash and Expensive Items: Don’t display large amounts of cash, expensive jewellery, or electronics in public. Pickpockets may be more likely to target individuals who appear wealthier.Don’t Advertise Your Belongings: When using your phone or camera in public, keep it close and secure. Don’t leave expensive items visible in your bag or on the table.4. Be Careful in Crowded Areas Know Pickpocket Hotspots: Areas such as busy shopping streets, train stations, and tourist attractions are prime spots for pickpocketing. In these places, extra vigilance is required.Avoid Being Surrounded: Pickpockets often work in teams. Be extra cautious if you find yourself surrounded by people, such as in a queue, on public transport, or during a parade.5. Secure Your Personal Belongings in Public Transport Hold Your Bag Tightly: When on buses or trains, keep your bag or belongings in front of you, and if possible, hold it with both hands.Avoid Placing Items on Seats: Never leave your bag unattended, even for a moment. It’s common for pickpockets to work in pairs, with one distracting the victim and the other stealing from them.6. Use Technology for Extra Protection Trackable Items: Consider placing a small tracking device in your wallet or bag. Some people use smart wallets or bags with GPS tracking to help recover stolen items.Contactless Card Protection: Use RFID-blocking wallets or sleeves to prevent remote scanning of your bank cards or travel passes.7. Educate Yourself on Pickpocketing Tactics Common Distractions: Pickpockets often use distraction techniques, such as bumping into you, asking for directions, or dropping something in front of you to create an opportunity for theft. Stay alert when approached by strangers in this way.Be Aware of Groups: A common technique involves a group surrounding or pushing you to create confusion while one person steals from you.8. Report Suspicious Activity Notify Authorities: If you notice suspicious behaviour, such as a group acting strangely or someone paying excessive attention to your belongings, inform a police officer or store manager immediately.Police and Security: In major city centres, especially in areas with high foot traffic, there are often uniformed officers or private security staff. Don’t hesitate to approach them if you feel uneasy.By staying vigilant, using secure bags, and avoiding distractions, you can significantly reduce your chances of falling victim to pickpocketing. If you would like further information then please Click Here If you have any questions, or would like request a set of bells that can be attached to a handbag zip, please reply to this emails and I will arrange a set to be sent to you. If you are part of an organisation and feel this message should be shared please feel free to share it, alternatively send a reply and I can potentially arrange for someone to attend the next meeting. Thanks in advance. |
