Minimizing Purse and Wallet Theft

27 Oct 2015

Handbags and wallets today can be quite an investment in their own rights. Add the value of the items you carry inside them and the hassle of cancelling credit cards and credit monitoring services to protect your identity and your good credit and the costs of purse or wallet theft become even greater. These tips will help you reduce your risks of having your wallet or purse stolen.

Carry Your Purse Close to and In Front of Your Body

Consider using a cross-body style purse that is more difficult for thieves to cut the strap and run with. Also wear your purse under your coat in winter months. Most purse thieves, unless they are specifically targeting you, are thieves of opportunity looking for convenient target. Every layer of difficulty you add to the process reduces your risks of becoming a victim.

Be Aware of What’s Going on Around You

Notice the landscape, the people, and the number of people if they seem to be congregated in a group. Is there a place that’s poorly lit or may provide cover for a thief to hide ad ambush you? Don’t forget to pay attention to your own comfort level, too. If you feel uncomfortable change your path or walk into a store or restaurant that has a lot of customers.

Never Leave Your Purse Unattended

Allowing your purse to “sit” in the basket of a shopping cart or on the ground at your feet makes it a convenient target for thieves – especially because you’re generally distracted in these situations and not paying attention to your purse.

Consider investing in a small purse holder that attaches to tables and then using it to keep your purse strapped to the table. Position your purse on the inside, if possible, so that it’s not easy for someone to snatch and grab I restaurants. While shopping, keep your purse on you at all times rather than providing thieves easy access to your purse while you’re reaching for cereal boxes.

Use GPS Tracking in Your Purse or Wallet

While GPS tracking won’t exactly reduce purse theft at first glance, it can help police with the tracking of your purse to catch those who took it. With identity theft being such a widespread crime it’s not solely about prevention. This makes it easier to catch those who committed the crime. The more widespread personal GPS tracking of purses and wallets become, the more criminals are likely to decide it isn’t worth the risk

Minimizing the Damage

While preventative actions are great, you must also take actions to reduce the risks to your household of a theft occurs. Don’t carry keys in your purse along with your ID as this gives thieves access to your address, your home, and your automobiles. Carry only the credit and debit cards you need for your outing and as little cash as possible. Take care not to show off the cash or credit cards you are carrying in case possible thieves are watching.

Prevention is the best cure when it comes to purse or wallet theft. Always pay attention to what is going on around you and keep your hands free in order to defend yourself. Ultimately, though, your purse, and a few hours aggravation are small prices to pay for your safety or possibly your life.

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About George Karonis

George Karonis is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of LiveViewGPS Inc., a company he established in 2008 with the vision of making real-time GPS tracking more reliable, affordable, and accessible for businesses of all sizes. Over the past two decades, he has built a reputation as an innovator in GPS tracking, fleet management, asset monitoring, and Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PTToC) communications. Under George's leadership, LiveViewGPS has grown into a nationally recognized provider of GPS tracking solutions, serving businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, law enforcement organizations, and public works departments throughout the United States. The company's technology helps organizations improve operational efficiency, protect valuable assets, increase driver safety, and reduce operating costs through real-time location intelligence. Before founding LiveViewGPS, George developed a background in security, surveillance, and emerging location technologies. His passion for innovation and practical problem solving has driven the development of products that combine dependable hardware with easy-to-use cloud software, giving customers actionable information when it matters most. In 2018, George expanded into nationwide Push-to-Talk over Cellular communications by launching PeakPTT, providing businesses with rugged, instant communication solutions that operate over LTE and Wi-Fi networks. His focus has remained the same throughout his career: delivering dependable technology backed by exceptional customer service and long-term customer relationships. George regularly writes about GPS tracking, fleet management, asset protection, business technology, and communication systems. Through this blog, he shares industry insights, practical advice, and emerging trends to help organizations make informed decisions about tracking technology and connected operations.