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Pickpockets and purse snatchers love this time of year. Shoppers pack the malls and stores. Parking lots are jammed. Seasonal events bring hordes of celebrants to parades, festivals, concerts and church services. And crowds are the ideal environment for these lowlifes.

Before you venture out into the holiday madness, take the time to prepare and protect yourself with a few simple steps.

The important thing to remember is most thieves aren’t especially interested in the few bucks you have in your wallet. The bonanza is in the personal information you’re carrying that will let them steal your identity—that’s where the big bucks are!

Men: Clean out your wallets. You need only one credit card; leave the rest locked up at home. Ditto for your insurance cards Never, NEVER take your Social Security card with you. Now, move your wallet from your back pocket to your front pocket where you’re certain to notice even the most nimble hand reaching for your wallet. If even the threat of a pickpocket isn’t enough to make you change your ways, think of your appearance; that lump on your backside is not a good look for you.

Women: Clean out your wallets. You don’t need to put your checkbook in your purse, either. If you want to pay by check, take only a check or two with you. Keep your purse zipped or buckled up. Carry it close to your body not dangling from your hand or elbow. Don’t drape the strap over your shoulder and let your purse hang behind your arm. For women willing to quell their vanity, a fanny pack is the safest option.

Parking lot safety: Lots of malls post security guards near the exits; ask one to walk you to your car. If you see a mall security car driving by, flag it down and ask to be followed to your car. No guards in sight? Ask another gift-laden shopper to watch you walk to your car. For good karma, offer to do the same for other shoppers heading out into the dark.

The riskiest time is when you’ve reached your car. DO NOT toss your purse into the front seat then walk away from it to load your trunk. Keep your purse with you.

These rules apply to gas stations, too. It’s so easy for a thief to snatch your purse from the front seat while you’re outside pumping gas. Take your keys from the ignition and lock the car.