South Africans have been cautioned about a surge in criminal incidents specifically targeting shoppers at malls and commercial centres.

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Security Advisory from Fidelity ADT

Security firm Fidelity ADT has issued a public advisory highlighting an increase in opportunistic crimes occurring in these spaces. The crimes in question include cellphone theft and car remote jamming, which often occur when individuals are distracted.

Common Criminal Tactics

Criminals frequently take advantage of inattentive victims, so Fidelity ADT urges citizens to remain vigilant at all times. For instance, thieves commonly target individuals using their phones while waiting for an e-hailing ride. The company advises that people should only check their phones once they are safely inside the vehicle.

Another prevalent crime is car remote jamming, where criminals use a signal-blocking device to interfere with the locking mechanism of a vehicle. This deception prevents the car from locking, allowing thieves to steal valuable items left inside.

Rise in Follow-Home Crimes

These incidents align with previous warnings issued by Fidelity ADT about the rise in “follow-home” crimes. In these cases, criminals observe individuals making significant purchases at shopping centres. Once they identify a potential target, they discreetly follow the victim home. Upon arrival, the assailants strike, overwhelming the victim to gain access to their vehicle and residence.

Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing & Communications at Fidelity Services Group, emphasized that criminals particularly target vehicles carrying high-value items, especially those from premium brands.

Crime Statistics and Affected Regions

Crime statistics from the South African Police Services (SAPS) corroborate these warnings. During the third quarter of the 2024/2025 period, there were 12,412 reported cases of theft and robbery at non-residential properties, averaging 138 incidents per day.

Regions with larger shopping centres, such as Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape, have been the most affected. Gauteng recorded 2,690 cases, KwaZulu-Natal had 1,906, and the Western Cape saw 1,434 reported incidents.

Preventative Measures

To reduce the risk of falling victim to these crimes, Fidelity ADT advises the following:

Shop in pairs – Groups are less likely to be targeted by criminals.
Plan your route – Avoid isolated areas and refrain from traveling after dark.
Wait in safe areas – Choose well-lit, busy locations when waiting for an e-hailing ride.
Park strategically – Opt for busy, well-lit parking areas with visible security.
Prioritize security – Whenever possible, park near security personnel or car guards.
Stay alert – Be aware of your surroundings, avoid distractions, and do not use earphones while walking.
Hide valuables – Keep items out of sight, either in the glove compartment or the boot.
Physically check your car doors – Always ensure they are locked before walking away.
Be discreet with valuables – Exercise caution when handling high-value items in public spaces.

Additional Security Recommendations

Fidelity ADT also recommends installing a vehicle tracker as an additional security measure for all trips.

The company urges citizens to report all criminal activities to law enforcement authorities. Even unsuccessful attempts should be documented, as such information aids in crime tracking and prevention efforts.