HIGHVELD – Criminals are apparently standing between vehicles in parking lots to pose as passersby or fellow shoppers and open car doors just before the driver locks the door, causing the alarm and central-locking systems to malfunction.
Motorists who park their vehicles in public parking lots when they do their holiday shopping, should be aware of who is standing next to their vehicle and make sure that all doors are locked before they walk away.
Avoid falling victim to this new form of criminal activity by following basic safety tips:
• Always double check that all your vehicle’s doors, as well as the boot, are properly closed before locking it and be aware of strangers standing close to your vehicle.
• Make sure the alarm system is armed before leaving your vehicle. Most alarm systems will not sound or will blink the indicator lights in a different way when something prevents them from arming.
• Limit distractions – avoid being on your phone or talking to someone while you should be focused on locking your car.
• Be wary of any suspicious people watching you closely while you park and/or hanging around close to your vehicle.
