• Try to pay using a debit card rather than carrying large amounts of cash.
• Take extra care when using a cashpoint or chip and pin - cover the keypad with your hand.
• Never write down your pin number.
• If you carry a handbag, keep your purse at the bottom of it.
• Never keep your wallet in your back pocket.
• Keep your handbag zipped at all times – crowded shopping areas are very popular with pickpockets.
• Don't leave any bags, including your handbag, in the shopping trolley while you shop.
• Stay alert when using your mobile. It's very easy for someone to snatch it out of your hand.
• Don't return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping, as thieves can watch in car parks.
• Don't leave valuables on the seat of your car - they attract thieves.
• Don't leave your house keys in your car.

On Holiday

Thieves are often watching for homes that look empty, particularly during school holidays, as they know this is a popular time to go away. Follow our advice to help prevent your household falling victim to burglars:

• Make your home look like someone is living in it, e.g. don't close your curtains. In daytime this shows your house is empty. Also, use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights and radios on when it goes dark.
• Cancel any newspaper or milk deliveries.
• Trusted neighbours may be able to help you by collecting your post or parking their car on your driveway.
• Try not to take a taxi to the airport. If you do, use a taxi company you can rely on, don't discuss your holiday plans and make it sound like you have a house-sitter, whether you do or not.
• Leave important documents and valuable items with other family members or a bank. Alternatively lock them in a safe.
• Do not put your home address on your luggage when you are travelling to your holiday destination. A house number and postcode will suffice if you want to label your luggage.
• If you normally leave bicycles or similar items in your shed, consider putting them in the house.
• Make sure that you lock all outside doors and windows and set your burglar alarm if you have one.
• Don't post public messages on social media that you're away from home.

Read More - source crimestoppers-uk.org