A busy grocery store can be a prime hunting ground for thieves who are looking for a distracted target. These criminals, who often work in teams, are experts at using the chaotic environment of a supermarket to their advantage. They have several common tactics that they use to separate you from your purse or wallet when your attention is focused elsewhere. By being aware of these six high-risk moments, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim of this common crime.
1. Leaving Your Purse in the Shopping Cart
This is the single biggest mistake that shoppers make, and it is the one that thieves look for the most. When you place your purse in the child seat of the shopping cart, you will often turn your back on it to look at an item on the shelf. This gives a thief the perfect opportunity to walk by and snatch your wallet or the entire purse in a split second while you are not looking. You should always keep your purse on your shoulder or as a crossbody bag.
2. Being Distracted in the Produce Section
The produce section requires a lot of your attention. You are focused on inspecting the fruit, weighing your vegetables, and bagging your items. This makes you an easy target for a distraction thief. One member of a team might come up and ask you a question about a piece of produce to distract you. While you are engaged with them, their partner will come up from behind and steal the wallet out of your open purse.
3. The “Bump and Steal” Tactic
The “bump and steal” is another classic distraction technique. A thief will “accidentally” bump into you or your cart. While you are busy apologizing or checking to see if everything is okay, they or their partner will use that moment of confusion to quickly lift your wallet from your purse or your pocket. This happens so quickly that you often do not realize you have been robbed until you get to the checkout.
4. The Fake “Good Samaritan” Ploy
In this scenario, a thief will “find” a dropped item on the floor near you, like a twenty-dollar bill or a credit card. They will then tap you on the shoulder and ask if you dropped it. While you are distracted by this seemingly kind gesture and are busy checking your own wallet, their partner will be stealing your purse from your shopping cart. It is a clever trick that preys on your good nature.
5. Loading Groceries in the Parking Lot
The parking lot is another high-risk area. You are often distracted as you load your groceries into your car. Many people will place their purse on the front seat or in the open trunk while they are loading the bags. This allows a thief to quickly open your door and grab the purse while you are focused on the other side of the car. You should always lock your car doors as soon as you get to your vehicle.
6. Using the Self-Checkout Lane
The self-checkout lane can make you a vulnerable target. You are busy trying to scan your items, enter produce codes, and bag your groceries all at the same time. This multitasking can make you less aware of your surroundings. A thief can easily take advantage of this distraction to snatch your wallet or phone while it is sitting on the counter.
The Best Defense Is Awareness
The key to protecting yourself from this type of crime is to remain aware of your surroundings at all times. You should never leave your purse unattended in a shopping cart. Be skeptical of any stranger who tries to distract you with an unusual question or situation. By making yourself a less easy target, you can ensure that your grocery shopping trip is a safe and uneventful one.
Have you ever been the victim of a theft at a grocery store? What are your top tips for staying safe while shopping? Share your advice in the comments!
What to Read Next
7 Illinois Grocery Items That Now Require ID to Purchase
Why Are Some Stores Now Using Lockboxes for Toothpaste?
These 7 States Have The Highest Grocery Store Thefts
Why Are Major Grocery Chains Quietly Locking Up Basic Goods?
9 Fast Food Promotions That Caused Public Outrage
The post 6 Moments in Grocery Stores When You’re More Likely to Have Your Purse Stolen appeared first on Grocery Coupon Guide.
