Ensuring security when carrying, moving cash

It is much safer not to carry cash and to rely on a debit card or credit card to pay for purchases. In some countries, almost all purchases are made with this form of “plastic money”.
With limitations, however, on where such cards are currently accepted in Zimbabwe, it remains for the time being a necessary risk to have a certain amount of cash on one when moving.
The risk can be reduced by taking a number of precautions. Firstly, it is wise not to carry more than one is likely to need. Secondly, the cash should be kept in a place where it would be difficult for anyone to grab it.
If a considerable amount has to be carried, it could be split between different pockets or different compartments in a handbag, to reduce the risk of it all being discovered in one place. Attempts can be made to disguise it by putting it inside something else.
When paying for purchases, try to have the right money ready, so that people don’t see you going through wads of money at the till in the process of finding the amount you need.
Never carry money or a wallet in a back pocket. Always try to make sure you have a firm grip on your handbag.
When going into a bank or coming out of it, be aware of those who are around you. When you drive away, check periodically in your rear view mirror to make sure you are not being followed. If you think that you are, take evasive action by turning down different roads to see if you are still being followed.
If you are sure you are being followed drive to a public place. Park the car close to a shop ent-rance or a security guard, if you can. Telephone for assistance.
If you bank money every day, vary the time that you go and the route you take. Better still, use a security company’s cash-in-transit service. Safeguard’s cash-in-transit service uses armed guards to protect cash, which is kept in sealed containers.
The cash-in-transit service is affordable. It would be worth hiring it even to bank US$500, given the cost of US$25 for the service. Even US$100 is a lot of money. People have been attacked for less. It is not worth risking your life or the lives of your employees for any significant sum.
The cash-in-transit service can also be used to move cash between a company’s branches and to make up wage packets and pay staff.
-This column is sponsored by Safeguard Security in the public interest.
If you have security issues you would like advice on in this column, please e-mail your request to mail@mhpr.co.zw or telephone Jackie at Safeguard Security on 751395-9.