Operation Valiant

Stay busy. Be aware. Hide it.

• Plan your route and stick to busy, well lit areas.
• Walk with purpose and be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep your mobile phone and valuables out of view in your pocket or bag.

Look out for each other and if you see anything suspicious, report it.

Always call 999 in an emergency.

Report non-emergency crime via 101 or our LiveChat at: www.gmp.police.uk

 

Mobile phones and valuables

• If you’re using your phone while out in public, it’s more likely to be snatched from your hand as you’re not paying attention to your surroundings. Try and keep phone use while walking from A to B minimal and keep it out of sight.
• Never leave valuable items on the table of a restaurant or bar, especially outside. Thieves can snatch items in a blink of an eye.
• Use your device’s security features, apps or PIN locking mechanisms to protect your data and prevent the device being used if stolen.
• Track it. Consider installing a tracker app on your smartphone. They’re readily available. If your mobile’s ever stolen, act promptly.
• Remember, if a location doesn’t look or feel right then steer clear.

 

ATM theft.

• Thieves will watch as you key in your PIN or try to distract you while you’re withdrawing cash. Be vigilant. Cover your PIN and keep an eye on your card at all times
• If someone is acting suspiciously around an ATM machine, walk away and go elsewhere. Alternatively, go directly into a bank to withdraw money and keep a regular check on your transactions.
• Make your bank aware straight away if there are any transactions appearing on your statement that you haven’t made.
• When you've left an ATM, put your card away immediately.
• You should also be careful with contactless cards. You can get a card holder to prevent your card details being inadvertently read.

 

Do’s

• Do keep purses and bags closed and secure at all times
• Do walk with friends if possible. There’s safety in numbers.
• Do carry bags in front of you or diagonally across your chest..
• Do return cards to your purse or wallet quickly and zip it up or button it.
• Do conceal your wallet in a buttoned or zipped pocket where it doesn’t bulge.
• Do keep a list, separate from your wallet and phone, of contact numbers of family in case your phone is stolen.
• Do keep a photocopy of your airline tickets, passport, credit cards and any other documents that would be impossible or inconvenient to replace if stolen.

 

Don'ts

• Don’t hang stuff on the back of a chair while out in public.
• Don’t place your belongings out of sight on the floor.

Remember, having a zipped bag doesn’t mean you’re totally safe. Thieves have been known to walk behind victims while slowly unzipping bags. So, never underestimate a pickpocket.