Phones, wallets and handbags can be popular items targeted for theft due to their size and concealability, and often having value inside these items, such as cash or forms of identification.

Everyone can take simple precautions to ensure their property isn’t targeted by criminals, police are reminding locals.

Leaving bags, wallets and phones on tables or counters or in shopping trolleys can provide an easy opportunity for them to be stolen.

When at a café, pub or bar, or even doing the weekly shop, think about where you are placing items.

These locations are often busy with lots of people moving around and people concentrate on other things, which can create an opportunity for someone to take your personal items without detection.

Senior Constable Daniel Greef, Crime Prevention Officer at the Lachlan Local Area Command said thefts can have an enormous emotional and financial impact.

“By taking a few precautionary measures, you could prevent the need to replace stolen goods, cancel cards or worry about identity theft,” Senior Constable Greef said.

“Police would suggest phones and wallets are kept on your person, in pockets or bags, and handbags not be left in trolleys on the floor of businesses, even if you’re sitting nearby.”

For further information contact the Crime Prevention Officer, Lachlan Local Area Command on 6862 9999.