Baghdad:Northern Cape With increased retail activity expected during the Black Friday shopping period, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape is urging shoppers and consumers to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their valuables against criminal activities.
According to South African Government News Agency, the police highlighted that the Black Friday period often sees increased movement of people at shopping centres, retail outlets, and ATMs, which may create opportunities for criminals to target unsuspecting shoppers. Black Friday falls on 27 November 2026.
To minimise the risk of becoming a victim of crime, the public is encouraged to observe specific safety tips when using ATMs. These include having your bank card ready before approaching the ATM, being alert to your surroundings, and avoiding ATMs if suspicious individuals are nearby. Additionally, the public is advised to shield the keypad when entering their PIN, never accept assistance from strangers, and secure their money immediately after transactions.
As Black Friday shopping extends to online platforms, consumers are also cautioned to exercise extreme care when making internet purchases. The police advise using reputable and secure websites, verifying the authenticity of online retailers, and never disclosing banking details, PINs, or passwords to anyone. Offers that appear too good to be true are often fraudulent and should be approached with skepticism.
The SAPS appealed to communities to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and work closely with law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime. They emphasized the importance of collective responsibility and community participation in creating a safer environment and contributing towards a safer festive season.