What’s worse than feeling forced to buy a gift for your least favorite and very distant cousin? Watching helplessness as said gift is snatched from your arms by a perfect stranger. That’s what.
Here are 5 things you can do to avoid being marked by opportunistic pickpockets, muggers, thieves, and bandits (especially bandits) this shopping season.
5 Tips to Follow in Order to not Get Mugged
Watch Your Back
When someone approaches you for directions, always have one hand on your valuables. Be kind but be brief when speaking with anyone you don’t know. If you feel uncomfortable, don’t be shy about crossing the street. Your safety is more important than someone else’s feelings!
Leave the Bag
I’m guilty of this one. I love large handbags because they hold everything and look amazing! But they’re easy to spot and grab. If you know you’ll be on the street for more than half a block consider caring a small satchel or a wallet with a strap that crosses your body. When on the train always wrap your purse around you in a way that would make it hard to steal in a hurry. If, despite your precautions, someone has the audacity to ask for your bag, give it to them! Whatever’s inside is replaceable and replicable. You’re not.
Put Away Your Phone
In this day and age it’s hard to believe anyone would want to steal your iPhone, right? Remember last year’s flash muggings? IPhones, iPads, and iPods were particularly targeted. Why? Their popularity is exactly what makes them easy to resale. Remember, thieves love Ebay too. Especially if you’re alone or walking in public, wait on sending that text message until you reach a nearby café or store. If you’re on the train, be discreet and tuck your phone into your pocket as soon as you’re done with it.
Say What?!
“Ma’am, can I ask you a question?”
“You look nice today. Are you seeing anyone?”
“Where are you headed? Can I come?”
Don’t hold a conversation with someone you don’t know. Period. I always cringe when a naïve young woman is coerced into a discussion that leaves her vulnerable and embarrassed on a train full of strangers. She blushes, buries her entire head into a Red Eye, and unconvincingly acts as if pop news gives her life. We don’t believe you, girl. In the future don’t be so polite. A simple, “No thank you, Sir” or “I’m married” usually will suffice. Know when to lend a deaf ear to someone not worthy of your time. Seeing you’re not amused by their foolishness, a nuisance may continue on their way until a more susceptible target is found. When on the train, I recommend wearing headphones with or without music playing to avoid being bothered by bugaboos.
Hunt in Packs
Shop with friends. It goes without saying that victims tend to be alone. Shopping with friends means more eyes to surveillance your surroundings and sound alarm when necessary.
Chicago provides one of the best shopping atmospheres in the world and is still a great place to live. Be smart, safe, and shop happy this season!