Be careful! Purse snatching can be a violent crime. One way to prevent purse snatching is not to carry a purse, or to carry it in a way that makes it quite inaccessible or hidden, such as wearing it under your coat or carrying it like a football. Keeping your purse close to your body with your arm over it makes it a little bit harder for someone to grab at the purse.
Many think that wearing a purse, or a messenger bag, with the strap diagonally across their body is a good idea but this makes it easier for the strap to catch around your neck if somebody decides to grab the purse and tries to run with it.
If someone attempts to snatch your purse, let go of it immediately, especially if there is a weapon involved. When dining out, the only safe place for your purse is in your lap. The back of a chair or the floor is an easy target for a thief.
Be particularly aware of your purse in crowded situations, such as rush-hour trains and buses. If you are jostled in a crowd, be aware that a pickpocket might be responsible. Beware of arguments or commotions designed to distract you while your purse is being picked.
Minimize the amount of money, credit cards and valuables you carry by only taking items that are necessary for the day. Divide money between your purse, your wallet and in your pockets. Carry your keys on your person, separate from your identification.
Use well-populated and well-lit streets. If you suspect you’re being followed, stay away from deserted blocks and head for an area where there are people or to the nearest open store. If you’re driven home, ask the driver to wait until you are safely inside. Should a motorist bother you while you are walking, reverse your direction. If you are still followed, seek a safe location and yell for help, if possible.
Tips:
• Thieves will often “shadow” their victim. Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Know who and what is around you. If you see one suspect, there may be another suspect close by.
• Trust your instincts. Your instincts will tell you when someone or something is suspicious.
• React immediately and take actions to reduce your risk.
• Display confidence. Criminals choose the victim who looks like the easiest target. Walk with your head up and be alert to all that is around you. Show that you are ready to react.
• Carry only what you need. Leave a large purse at home and carry a smaller billfold or long strap wallet purse that you can conceal it under a coat. If it is necessary to carry a purse, keep it in front and close to your body.
• Avoid placing your purse in a shopping cart.
• Keep your head up and your eyes open. Make eye contact when you are walking or shopping with individuals around you.
• Look around the parking lot or the street’s parking area before you exit your vehicle or enter your vehicle so you can make a quick exit if necessary.
• Have serial numbers, credit card numbers, phone numbers associated to the those items and any other information ready at home just in case they are stolen. That way you can report the items stolen to the appropriate agency or company quickly to reduce fraudulent charges and any associated fees.
If you are a victim, call 911 right away. Below is more information and tips on reporting an incident.
