The holiday shopping season means busy malls and shopping centers, and those packed parking lots have become the perfect target for thieves across the Metroplex.
In the last week there have been 7 robberies in parking lots at various locations in Dallas.
In Fort Worth, police say a man has been targeting women leaving restaurants with three victims this week alone.
The trip from the store door to your car door can leave you vulnerable.
"This time of year really seems to highlight those kinds of offenses," said Lt. Andy Harvey of the Dallas Police Department, "thieves and robbers are looking for targets anytime of the day."
Even so, there are ways some shoppers are protecting themselves.
"I walk a distance from my car," shopper Sandy Roach said, "and kind of peak underneath a little bit."
"My keys," said Jenny Jacobson, "you can always use those as kind of like brass knuckles."
"I usually have two dogs in my car," said Joanne Bates of Dallas, "so they're watching me too."
But police say those tactics mean nothing without a little awareness.
"Just listen to your gut instinct," said Lt. Harvey, "If you feel that something's wrong or there's somebody watching you then listen to yourself."
Police have increased patrols around shopping center and malls because of the holiday season.
They also suggest calling 911 if you are ever in a parking lot and feel unsafe.
