How criminals gather information

One of the most concerning trends, according to Vermaak, is how easily criminals can collect personal details.

Social media, unsolicited phone calls, and even casual conversations can reveal valuable information about routines, workplaces, family members, or financial status.

“People often accept social media requests from strangers or share information with unknown callers,” he said. “Criminals use that information to build a picture of their target.”

For professionals, business owners and families who share details of daily routines online, this can unintentionally create a roadmap for criminals.

The moments when people are most vulnerable

Kidnappings often occur during everyday activities — particularly when people are distracted or focused on routine tasks.

Vermaak says common situations include:

• arriving home and stopping at security gates

• loading groceries at shopping centres

• walking around a vehicle while packing bags

• school pickups and drop-offs

• predictable commuting routines

In some reported cases, criminals have taken advantage of moments when drivers step away from their vehicles or are momentarily distracted.

Warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored

Security experts say awareness is one of the most effective tools for reducing risk.

Red flags can include:

• the same unfamiliar vehicle repeatedly parked near a home or workplace

• strangers asking unusual personal or financial questions

• suspicious social media activity or unknown followers

• callers seeking detailed information about routines

“If something feels suspicious, report it,” Vermaak advised.

While the statistics are concerning, experts say small behavioural changes — such as being cautious about what is shared publicly and staying alert to unusual activity — can make a meaningful difference in reducing risk.