With the holidays approaching, there are a lot of people carrying cash and valuables when out shopping. Often, people are dressed up, in a hurry and not paying attention. This offers increased opportunities for thieves, so it's important to take some precautions. If someone is determined to take your purse or wallet, they will. But you can take steps to decrease the risk.

♦Dress comfortably
: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are easy to move around in. You don't want to be encumbered by clothing or shopping bags. You don't want to be an easy target. One reader, Polly in Pennsylvania, shares: “I have an across-the-body handbag that I use sometimes at malls or around the holiday season. I wear it under my coat and I stay zipped up, or at least zipped enough to cover the handbag.”

♦Purse contents: A large purse indicates that you have a lot of stuff to steal. You don't need every available identifiable item in your purse. For example, keep your Social Security card safe at home or in a safe-deposit box. Items such as a cell phone, iPod, keys, business cards, multiple credit cards, eyeglasses or cash don't have to be kept in your purse. There isn't much reason to carry a lot of cash when you can use a debit card.

♦Keep your eye on it: Don't leave your purse unattended or opened. ” Avoid setting your purse down on the floor at a movie theater, public restroom or restaurant, too. Most important, let your purse go. Don't resist or fight to keep it. Let the thief take it.

♦Buddy system: When parking, try to park in a well-lighted area. If you're leaving a store at night, don't be afraid to ask a security guard or store employee to walk you to your car. Or shop with family or friends, so you're not alone.