BLACK Friday may sound like a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of amazing deals, especially in the run-up to the festive season, but shoppers are cautioned against ‘losing the plot’.
‘If something seems too good to be true, chances are it is,’ said Charnel Hattingh, National Marketing and Communications Manager at Fidelity ADT.
‘It is very easy to lose focus, especially on Black Friday.
‘However, there are basic safety rules that people should definitely not forget today, and for the rest of the festive season.’
• Be aware of surroundings when shopping as criminals may be looking to take advantage of unsuspecting people.
• Avoid taking children to busy malls. If you can’t leave them at home, make sure they are with you and in sight at all times.
• Teach children what to do if they get lost in a busy mall, ie finding the nearest security guard and asking them to telephone their parents.
• Ensure vehicles are locked and secured before leaving the parking area. The busy times are ideal for opportunistic remote jammers to take advantage of non-vigilant shoppers.
• Avoid leaving purchases in view inside the vehicle.
• Once home, avoid leaving boxes from electronic purchases visible in your yard as this could attract criminals to break into the house.
