Page 6 - FWG November Issue 2025

Security

SHOP SMART,

STAY SAFE THIS

SHOPPING SEASON

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

lack Friday, Cyber Monday, and the festive shopping rush
should be times of excitement, not anxiety. You’ve worked S ta ying saf e online
Staying safe online
hard for your money – don’t let criminals or carelessness rob
Byou of your joy this shopping season. Online shopping continues to grow in popularity, but it’s
important to remain cautious – cybercriminals are just as
busy as shoppers this time of year.
24/7 Security Services urges everyone to keep safety and security
top of mind. Staying alert and informed will help ensure your
shopping experience is both happy and safe. • Shop on secure sites – Look for a padlock icon in the
browser bar and ensure the web address begins with
‘https://’. Use only trusted payment platforms.
Safety at the Mall
S af et y a t the M all • Stick to reputable retailers – Only buy from recognised
South African shopping centres are at their busiest during November websites. Be cautious of unfamiliar sites offering unusually
and December, making it easy for opportunistic criminals to blend low discounts.
into the crowd. A few smart habits can make all the difference. • Avoid public Wi-Fi – Never shop or bank online using
open networks in malls or coffee shops; these are easy
• Stay alert – Awareness is your strongest defence. Distraction, targets for hackers.
especially with cell phones, can make you an easy target. • Be cautious of phishing scams – Fraudsters often send
• Park wisely – Choose well-lit parking areas close to entrances or fake emails or messages that appear legitimate. Avoid
under CCTV surveillance. clicking on suspicious links.
• Avoid sitting in your car – Checking messages or making calls • Use strong passwords – Combine uppercase letters,
while parked makes you vulnerable. Move off as soon as you’re ready. symbols, and numbers to create a secure password of at
• Keep valuables out of sight – Lock handbags, laptops, and least eight characters.
shopping bags in the boot before you leave your vehicle. • Activate two-factor authentication – OTPs (one-time
• Watch out for remote jamming – Car-jamming is a common PINs) and authentication apps provide essential extra
tactic. Always double-check that your car is locked manually, even protection for your accounts.
if you do hear the locking sound. • Monitor your transactions – Check your bank statements
• Limit cash – Carry only what you need and avoid showing large regularly and report any suspicious activity immediately.
sums of money when paying.
• Keep your belongings close – Keep handbags zipped, and wallets A jo yful , saf e shopping season
A joyful, safe shopping season
and phones out of sight when walking through crowded areas.
• Dress – Avoid displaying expensive jewellery or watches when Shopping should be fun, festive, and rewarding – not
shopping. stressful. By taking a few precautions and keeping your wits
• Be prepared – Have your car keys ready as you approach your about you, you can shop with confidence knowing you’ve
vehicle so you can get in quickly. done your part to protect yourself and your hard-earned
• Ask for help – Most shopping centres offer a security escort money. Stay alert, stay safe, and enjoy every moment of
service. If you feel uneasy, request assistance from a guard. your festive season.

Fourways Gardens • 4 • November 2025