Don’t let the Grinch steal your festive cheer!

Insurance tips to protect your valuables this holiday season.

With the festive season around the corner, everyone is looking to give, receive, and take part in the holiday spirit. But the holiday cheer also brings heightened risks as criminals target unsuspecting consumers. Two recent high-profile jewellery heists - one at Clearwater Mall and another at the Winifred Mandela Precinct in Bryanston - highlight the growing risks consumers face. In both incidents, thieves made off with a substantial amount, serving as stark reminders of the need to stay vigilant.

“The combination of bustling shopping centres, distracted consumers, and visible high-value purchases makes for a perfect storm. South African’s need to become aware and take proactive measures where necessary to protect their valuables wherever they are.” cautions Tarina Vlok, Managing Director at Elite Risk Acceptances, a high net-worth insurer and subsidiary of Old Mutual Insure

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), hijackings in Gauteng have already risen by 14.4% during the third quarter of 2024, compared to the previous year. Nationwide, 60 cars are stolen daily, with thefts increasing by 14% in the Western Cape and 11% in the Northwest. Additionally, property-related crimes, such as the theft of smartphones, jewellery, and other prized items, are also on the rise.

Shopping malls and petrol stations have become hotspots for opportunistic criminals targeting cash registers and customers' belongings. Vlok emphasises that being distracted by your phone while shopping can make you an easy target. “Using social media in a mall environment often means you’re not able to pay full attention to your surroundings, which can increase the risk of your handbag being snatched or purchased items stolen from your trolley,” she explains.

She also warns against geotagging posts or photographs. “As tempting as it is to show off holiday purchases online, holiday goers need to remember that criminals can use details in shared images to track whereabouts. Geotagging automatically embeds location data in content, revealing where people are or have been without them realising it. This makes it easier for criminals to target unsuspecting shoppers, both in the moment and later at home.”

Molebatsi Langa, Head of Retail Strategic Accounts at Old Mutual Insure, highlights the importance of general safety during the holiday season. "While the holidays are a time for joy, travel, and gift-giving, it’s essential not to overlook safety. Simple precautions - like locking up your home, staying alert while shopping, and being cautious on the road - are key to ensuring a stress-free festive season.

“The festive season presents various risks, from protecting valuable gifts under the tree to staying vigilant about safety at home or while on holiday. We recommend a few simple steps to help consumers enjoy peace of mind and a safe, enjoyable break,” says Langa.

Here are Langa’s and Vlok’s top tips for keeping your holiday safe and secure:

Tip #1 Provide your insurer with proof of purchase for high-value items

After purchasing high-value gifts, it’s important to inform your insurer. Be sure to provide your insurer with proof of purchase to make the claims process easier. “Documentation is key,” Vlok stresses. “Providing your insurer with the right paperwork ensures you’re covered if something happens.”

Tip #2: Keep your car and belongings secure
Leaving valuables visible in your car can make it an easy target. Langa advises, “Keep bags, phones, and wallets out of sight.” Also, consider anti-theft devices like jamming-proof key holders to guard against remote jamming.

Before heading out, place any valuables in the boot to avoid drawing unwanted attention, especially when parking in busy areas. Vlok adds, “Preparation is essential to preventing unnecessary risks.”

When exploring a new city or travelling in unfamiliar areas, it's a good idea to keep your backpack with you at all times, says Vlok. She also suggests that to minimise the risk of mobile theft, consider putting a lanyard on your phone or keeping it in a place other than a visible pocket.

Tip #3 Be mindful of your surroundings in parking areas
Hijackings and remote jamming are common in parking areas, especially at shopping malls. “Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid distractions,” advises Vlok.

Modern criminals use advanced methods like remote jamming to steal from vehicles. Consider investing in anti-theft devices to protect your car from these types of crimes. “Taking precautions, like using a jamming-proof key holder, can save you from a lot of hassle,” Vlok concludes.

Tip #4 Keep your home secure:
"Unattended homes are prime targets for criminals during the holiday season. Langa recommends homeowners who are travelling and unable to arrange a house sitter should, 'Install timers on strategic interior lights and use day-and-night bulbs for exterior lights.'

Furthermore, simple precautions like turning off the water mains and keeping your roof clear of leaves, branches, or other debris that could cause water to pool and damage the structure can help prevent significant damage, especially when you're away for extended periods," says Langa.

Depending on your location, thunderstorms and heavy rains are common during the summer months and can cause structural damage. "Clear gutters, trim overhanging branches, and check for leaks to avoid costly repairs," she adds

Tip #5 Drive safely:
Before hitting the road, ensure your car is in top condition. Check tyres, brakes, and fluid levels, and plan your route in advance. Pack essentials such as a first aid kit and jumper cables and take regular breaks during long trips.

“The festive season is meant to be a time of joy and celebration,” says Vlok. “By taking these precautions, you can avoid unnecessary stress and focus on what truly matters - spending quality time with loved ones.”

Langa adds, “A little preparation goes a long way. Whether it’s safeguarding your home, car, or valuables, staying proactive ensures a safer and more enjoyable holiday for everyone.”