York Regional Police released safety tips on how to protect yourself from distraction thefts following a series of these incidents reported across York Region.

Distraction thefts typically occur in parking lots of plazas, banks, malls and grocery stores, a YRP news release states.

These thefts involve the suspect approaching the victim and diverting their attention, either by requesting assistance or engaging them in a conversation.

YRP released a video of a "tire puncture distraction theft" as a primary example of why residents should be cautious of this crime.

The video shows an incident that took place Jan. 3 at around 4 p.m. in the parking lot of a plaza located at 1070 Major Mackenzie Dr. E., Richmond Hill.

It shows a team of suspects who are constantly moving, creating distraction for the right opportunity to steal valuables without being detected.

YRP reminds residents to be cautious and protect themselves by following these safety tips:

• if you are approached in a parking lot by someone claiming your tire is flat, your vehicle is damaged or you have dropped money on the ground, immediately retrieve your wallet, turn off your vehicle and take your keys out of the ignition, as this may be a ploy to distract you in order to steal your purse, other items within your car, or possibly your vehicle;

• keep purchases locked in the trunk of your vehicle;