Popular mobile game Pok\u00e9mon Go is yet to officially launch in South Africa, but many users are already taking to the streets to hunt down digital creatures – which carries some massive risks.<\/p>\n
Pok\u00e9mon Go is a mobile game that makes use of augmented reality to catch virtual monsters in real-world space. The game is based off the popular TV show and video games that gained popularity in the late 90s.<\/p>\n
The game encourages users to go out to real world locations to ‘hunt’ for the creatures, which requires\u00a0gamers to be actively engaged with the game on their phones.<\/p>\n
According to insurance group, Dialdirect, users in South Africa need to be cautious when playing, as they could become easy targets to crime.<\/p>\n
Several international reports have already noted that Pok\u00e9mon Go players have become targets, with criminals waiting and attacking in certain hot-spots – while Dialdirect notes that\u00a0smartphones are the portable possession most often claimed for, according to its statistics.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe usually recommend that consumers conceal their smartphones and that they don\u2019t unnecessarily brandish them about,”\u00a0said Dialdirect spokesperson, Bianca de Beer.<\/p>\n
“It is more sensible and safer to tuck your phone away in a bag or a deep, secure pocket and only take it when necessary. This advice becomes null and void when there are\u00a0(Pok\u00e9mon)\u00a0on the loose.”<\/p>\n
The group advised that players heed the warning that comes with the came – to be aware of one’s surroundings – and to use their common sense.<\/p>\n
Dialdirect also advised that\u00a0players\u00a0have adequate insurance in place in the event that it does get stolen\u00a0–\u00a0to keep a safe record of your phone\u2019s PUK and serial numbers and to back-up your phone\u2019s content. <\/span><\/p>\n “If your phone is stolen, report it to your operator immediately and obtain a blacklisting reference number. If the phone is blacklisted, the thief will not be able to use your phone and run up your bill,” de Beer said.<\/span><\/p>\n The insurance group also warned users against playing the game while driving – which is careless and illegal.<\/p>\n “In an attempt to cover more ground more quickly, some Pok\u00e9mon Go enthusiasts are taking to their cars and driving at a walking pace whilst staring at their screens. This is obviously a recipe for disaster and a very bad idea,” de Beer said.<\/p>\n This is what\u2019s driving angry South Africans to violent protest<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nMore on crime<\/h3>\n