Hang on to Your Wallets, Westchester. Pick Pockets are Thieving in Supermarkets in the county. According to North Castle Police, “Unfortunately, there has been a rise of pick pocket type thefts. We would like to remind everyone that when shopping in supermarkets, leaving your purse in a shopping cart while looking for groceries could be a target for thieves. Thieves are using distraction techniques, and usually are traveling in groups. A crossbody type bag, where all of your cards and wallet are on your person could prove to be helpful in keeping your belongings safe. Additionally, when checking out using a debit card, cover your pin number so other’s can’t view it.”
Two recent incidents at the Stop and Shop in North White Plains included $1700 stolen by thieves who watched a person enter their PIN, and the thieves stole the card and took the cash.
Shoppers are distracted by partners in the crime, while the other takes the card. Another method is to follow a shopper with the pocketbook in the shopping cart. While the shopper walks a few steps away to grab an item, the pickpockets quickly reach into your bag and take you debit card.
Some good pickpocket prevention tips include:
Keep your wallet in your front pocket to keep it close.
Wrap a rubber band around your wallet so it doesn’t slide out easily
Choose a purse with a complex latch to deter pickpockets
Shorten the straps on your bag or purse to keep it close to you.
Hold your bag or backpack instead of setting it down when you sit or when you shop
