DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - The Dallas Police Department is warning shoppers to be on alert as this weekend is typically when holiday thefts spike.

DPD says there are several things you can do that will minimize the likelihood you'll become the victim of a holiday grinch.

Dallas Police Senior Corporal Kevin Janse says inside those crowded malls, women should skip carrying bulky purses, and if you're like most and have a lot of stores you want to hit up, hide your purchases in your vehicle and plan out where you're going.

KRLD's Matt Thomas reports:

Janse says don't let your guard down when you get home either. You should avoid putting gifts, even wrapped, under a tree that can be seen from the street, because thieves love to window shop.