Street muggings and pick-pocketing are as common in Cape Town as in many cities around the world. Follow these precautions to avoid becoming a victim:

• Leave your bling at home, and keep cameras out of sight.
• When sitting in an outdoor cafe or restaurant, watch your handbag. This includes even such seemingly safe places as V&A Waterfront.
• Do not carry large sums of money, but always keep some to hand over in case of being mugged.
• Keep some coins in your pockets to hand out to car guards, so you don’t have to open your wallet.
• Stay clear of isolated areas, especially if you are on your own and especially after dark.
• ATMs are regular targets for criminals. Be alert if using a street ATM. Better yet, chose one at a bank branch or in a busy shopping centre.
• Do not attach your address to your key set or your wallet. If you lose your keys/wallet or they get stolen get your locks changed immediately.

Last updated: August 15, 2008