In a sad sign of the times, Sydney shoppers who turned out for Boxing Day bargains were faced with a confronting new security measure.

Police made the decision to park trucks on Market and George streets in the Sydney CBD to protect against any potential terror threat.

Seven News understands the heightened security was a preventative measure specifically to deter copy-cat attacks, after 18 pedestrians were mowed down last week in Melbourne.

Camera Icon The trucks dropped off bollards on CBD streets before parking as protection for shoppers. Credit: 7 News

In Sydney, the trucks dropped bollards along George and Pitt streets before taking up their own protective positions on the newly opened pedestrian shopping strip.

“In light of the large number of people expected at Boxing Day sales, police have put traffic management and security measures in place,” NSW Police said in a statement.

“This will be a one-day police operation while there is no specific threat.”

Camera Icon The trucks dropped off bollards on CBD streets before parking as protection for shoppers. Credit: 7 News

Bargain hunters gave the move the tick of approval.

“It’s obviously to stop renegade drivers hurling through the city and running over pedestrians like it’s happened in Melbourne, so pretty good idea,” one shopper told 7 News.

“It’s good to take precautions for sure,” another added.