Dark parking lots, shoppers lining up outside, cash and credit cards in each of their wallets - its a pickpocket's dream.

Great sales and slashed prices, it also increases the chance of being a victim.

Bring a shopping buddy, we advise shoppers who leave home in the middle of the night to spend money on gifts.

"Carry only what you need if you have the 'shop till you drop' mentality,".

And use caution in busy, dark parking lots where cars and people with children seem to move in all different directions.

Sheriff's Office offers the following shopping tips:

• Carry your purse or wallet close to you.

• Walk on the inner side of the pavement and in an opposite direction of oncoming traffic.

• Don't carry a purse over your shoulder -- this makes it easier for a thief to grab your bag and knock you over.

• If you have to carry a purse, try a small clutch under your arm.

• Don't leave your purse on the counter/shopping basket while you pay for items or on top of your car while you unload bags.

• Carry mace or a whistle for extra protection.

• If you use an ATM, use one inside a mall or in a well-lit area.

• Beware of identity thieves who use camera phones to take pictures of credit cards while standing behind people in line at ATM lines.

• Carry only those credits cards you will need; keep your driver's license, Social Security number and PIN protected.