Street Smarts and Chic Bags

Falling victim to crime is obviously upsetting, but it also makes folks incredibly angry – fuming even! It can be tough to avoid all crime in the street; arguably the most common street crimes are based around theft. Bag snatching and pick-pocketing – particularly in cities and crowded areas – are incredibly common in the cases of both natives and tourists.

What Bag? Cross body bags with secure fastenings are ideal. That’s not to say it has to be impenetrable, just secure enough to repel the attention of would-be thieves. Pick pockets and bag snatchers prefer easy targets like handbags left hanging open, shoulder bags worn hanging over the inner elbow, bum bags and loosely held clutch bags.

Body Language A woman sauntering down the street fishing through a wallet bulging with cash as the entire contents of her handbag bounce on display with her gait – the ideal victim! Thieves avoid people who look and behave as if they’re aware of potential hazards. For example, cross body bags worn hanging behind a person with zips half open convey a message of ignorance. The same bag worn fastened and on the front of a person – particularly if also resting a hand on the bag – presents the image of a person who’s alert to danger, and most likely prepared to fight back.

Tips
•Thieves often work in groups to confuse victims. One or more people to act as a distraction, and one to lift valuables or snatch a bag whilst the victim’s attention is diverted.
•Enjoying a cafe lunch? Keeping bags secure and in sight deters criminals. Keep clutch bags on the table against the inner   edge of the forearm to make a bag snatching seem more difficult.
•Pay particular attention in stations – crowds, disorientation and the confined space make for ideal crime conditions.