Over the past month, more than a dozen women pushing baby strollers have been targeted by thieves in the New York area - and authorities are worried copycat crooks could follow suit in other parts of the country this Christmas shopping season.

In the case of the New York women, the thieves targeted the female shoppers while they were taking care of their child - stealing their phones, purses and wallets.  In one case, the crooks even grabbed a phone directly from the hands of a six month old.

Authorities warn this should serve as a reminder to all shoppers this holiday season - always be aware of your surroundings.

(ABC Radio News)

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